Japanese robotics startup searching for manufacturing partners in India

Japanese robotics startup Jinki-Ittai (Man-Machine Synergy Effectors, Inc) is actively searching for manufacturing partners in India to produce its human-operated robots. The company, valued at approximately ₹179 crore (equivalent to three billion Japanese yen), aims to expand its presence in industries such as railways and foundries, where human lives are at risk. Jinki-Ittai’s robots are already used in Japan for tasks like railway line maintenance, and the startup is exploring subscription-based business models to make its technology more affordable, comparing it to mobile phone usage. Kanaoka, president of Jinki-Ittai, announced the initiative during the 21st edition of the industrial machinery exhibition ‘INTEC-2026,’ organized by the Coimbatore District Small Industries Association (CODISSIA) in Coimbatore on June 4, 2026. The company holds patents for all its technologies and currently partners with manufacturers in Japan for the local market. Kanaoka emphasized the need for similar partnerships in India to support the robots’ deployment in high-risk sectors. Meanwhile, Indian firms are investing significantly in robotics and automation. U. Subba Rao, General Manager of Integral Coach Factory (ICF-Chennai), revealed plans to invest ₹500 crore over the next two years in robotic welding automation to produce 3,000-3,500 coach shells annually. He urged industries to focus on global competitiveness, targeting markets like the U.S. and E.U. Additionally, N. Ramesh Kumar, Managing Director of RIR Power Electronics, announced a ₹600 crore investment in Odisha to manufacture Silicon Carbide devices, reducing reliance on imports from China. The INTEC-2026 exhibition, held at the CODISSIA Trade Fair Complex, spans five days with over 700 stalls across 2.65 sq. ft. and features 465 exhibitors. This year’s focus includes robotics, AI, and IoT, reflecting India’s growing emphasis on advanced manufacturing and automation. The event highlights collaborations between international startups and Indian industries to drive technological adoption.