Engineering and Allied Industries in Kerala

Kerala has a vibrant engineering and allied industrial sector. This sector is driven by major public sector undertakings (PSUs), private enterprises, and specialized manufacturing parks. The PSUs working under Department of Industries and Commerce, Government of Kerala in the category of Engineering and Allied Industries are as follows.

■ The Metal Industries Ltd

Established in 1928, Metal Industries Ltd is one of the few industrial enterprises that existed in India prior to independence. As a pioneering industrial venture in South India, it began by manufacturing various agricultural implements and handicrafts. The company operates in Shornur, Palakkad district.

■ Steel Industrials Kerala Ltd (SILK)

Steel Industrials Kerala Limited was established in 1974 by the Government of Kerala with a mission to develop steel-based industries and services in the state. It possesses state-of-the-art facilities for casting, fabrication, shipbuilding and ship-breaking, the manufacture of hospital and home furniture, and project management consultancy services.

■ Kerala Automobiles Ltd (KAL)

KAL, which commenced operations in 1978, manufactures three-wheeled vehicles powered by diesel, petrol, LNG, or CNG. Its product range includes auto-rickshaws, pickup/delivery vans, and eco-friendly CNG/LNG-fitted cargo autos. The company exports vehicles to countries such as Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Nigeria, South Africa, and Guatemala. It also manufactures various components required for ISRO's space exploration missions. The company received ISO certification as early as 1998. 

■ Steel and Industrial Forgings Ltd (SIFL)

Although SIFL—which holds AS 9100 C certification—was established in 1983, commercial production commenced in 1986. The company has demonstrated expertise in titanium and special alloy forgings. It manufactures critical forging components that are indispensable to sectors such as space exploration, defense research, railways, and the automotive industry.

■ Autokast Ltd

Autokast Ltd, established in 1984, manufactures various types of ferrous castings weighing between 20 kg and 8,000 kg. It has an annual production capacity of 6,000 metric tonnes. The Grey Iron and SG Iron castings of various grades produced here are in demand in both domestic and international markets. Autokast is currently preparing to manufacture steel castings. Various types of alloys are also produced at the facility.

■ SAIL-SCL Kerala Ltd

Steel Complex Limited, Kerala's only mini-steel plant, commenced operations in 1972 with the collaboration of KSIDC. It became a subsidiary of KSIDC in 1979. With the installation of a third electric arc furnace in 1983, annual production capacity rose to 55,000 tonnes. Holding an 'A' grade BIS license, the company is also authorized to issue BIS certificates.