Smart construction: India’s shift towards digitisation

Today, digital tools are finding widespread application across the construction value chain. AI, for instance, is helping reduce project planning time by up to 20 per cent, enabling faster decision-making and more accurate forecasting.³ Predictive analytics is being used to optimise equipment usage, inventory management and labour allocation, ensuring that resources are deployed efficiently and cost-effectively. These technologies are helping address long-standing challenges in the sector, such as delays and budget overruns, which still affect nearly 60 per cent of large infrastructure projects.⁴

New-age digital solutions are beginning to close this gap. Real-world use cases of 3D printing, for example, signal a growing shift towards faster and more efficient delivery models. Structures that once took weeks to build can now be completed in days, with reduced material waste and improved design precision. Similarly, drones are being used for site surveys and progress tracking, while robotics are enhancing safety and productivity in high-risk environments.

As India gears up to spend USD1.4 trillion on infrastructure by 2030, digital technologies are fast becoming indispensable.⁵ However, while the progress toward digitisation is strong, several challenges remain. Financial constraints continue to limit the adoption of advanced technologies, especially among smaller firms. Data fragmentation across platforms and systems hampers integration and insights, while a widening skill gap poses a barrier to effective implementation. To overcome these hurdles, focused efforts are needed to make the digital transition inclusive, scalable and secure.

Investments in digital infrastructure, training programs and regulatory support will be key to unlocking the full potential of technology in construction. By fostering collaboration between government, industry and academia, India can build a robust ecosystem that supports innovation and drives long-term growth. The future of construction lies in embracing digital transformation – not just as a tool for efficiency but as a strategic imperative for sustainable development.

As the sector continues to evolve, the integration of digital technologies will redefine what is possible in construction. From smarter planning and faster execution to better resource management and enhanced safety, the benefits are clear. With the right vision and commitment, India’s construction industry can lead the way in building not just infrastructure, but a digitally empowered future.