Sterling Tools, Meishuo to Boost Make in India Initiative

Sterling Tools Limited, one of the leading automotive fastener manufacturers in India, has forayed into the energy sector through its wholly owned subsidiary, Sterling Tech-Mobility Limited. The company has partnered with Zhejiang Meishuo Electric Technology Co., Ltd., China to locally manufacture latching relays for the energy sector, industrial grids, and other applications in India. These relays are crucial in reducing power consumption and thus extending the lifespan of key components across smart metering systems, as well as industrial and white goods applications. They enable the remote connection and disconnection of power to a consumer's premises, utilizing a latch mechanism that minimizes energy consumption during operation.

This association is expected to generate Rs. 200 crores in business by FY30, and Sterling Tools will bring the niche technology to manufacture and assemble latching relays locally at a new facility in Bengaluru, India, with an initial investment of around Rs. 20 crore.

By producing these components domestically, Sterling Tools aims to drive import substitution and reduce reliance on imports, aligning with the Atmanirbhar Bharat vision and supporting the Make in India initiative. The development will empower Indian companies and other suppliers to access advanced technology locally, building a self-reliant ecosystem for the industrial and white goods industries.

Commenting on the partnership, Anish Agarwal, Director, Sterling Tools Limited, said, “This partnership takes a significant step toward localizing the production of latching relays. We are expanding beyond our automotive roots to meet India's growing demand for advanced technology in the energy sector. By reducing reliance on imports, we will drive innovation and enhance efficiency. This initiative reinforces our commitment to the Make in India vision and directly supports our strategy to deliver cutting-edge solutions to our customers.”

A latching relay is a two-positional electromechanical switch used to maintain its position without power applied to the coil. Unlike their conventional counterparts, latching relays draw power only when they switch states, conserving energy and reducing costs. 

Xiaohu Huang, Chairman, Zhejiang Meishuo Electric Technology Co., Ltd., said, “India’s industrial and consumer markets offer immense potential for growth and innovation. Through our partnership with Sterling Tools, we are bringing our proven expertise in latching relays to one of the most dynamic economies globally. Together, we aim to create high-quality solutions that cater to India’s evolving industrial and consumer demands while contributing to the country’s self-reliance and sustainability goals."

Sterling Tools, through its wholly owned subsidiary Sterling Tech-Mobility Limited, plans to expand the local manufacturing of electrical components, systems, and relays, strengthening India’s industrial supply chain and reducing reliance on imports. With the market poised for significant growth, this partnership is well-timed to capitalize on emerging opportunities while contributing to a sustainable future.