New Delhi, Jun 22 (IANS): As the buzz around metaverse and its use cases grow, industry experts said on Wednesday that the Indian automotive sector should focus on augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) based skill training to stay ahead in the global race.

At an event here organised by the Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC), Rajesh Aggarwal, Secretary, Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) emphasised upon reskilling the roadside mechanics and appreciate the ASDC's initiative for the globally competent trainers with dual certification.

"It is pertinent that we promote AR-VR-based skill training for the automotive sector, imbibe the culture of learning, and focus on multi-skilling, as these initiatives will empower our youth and promote nation-building," Aggarwal told the audience at the 'ASDC's Partners Forum-2022'.

Vinod Aggarwal, President of ASDC and MD and CEO of VE Commercial Vehicles Ltd (VECV), said that the Indian automotive industry is at the forefront of global industry practices, "both in terms of adoption of the latest technology as well as fostering innovations through integrating safety and performance of vehicles produced in India".

"In order to continue its leadership position, it needs a constant source of skilled manpower as well as focus on upskilling and reskilling of its existing workforce," he added.

The event saw different sessions on outcome-driven training, strengthening the skill process, new opportunities in EV training and Industry 4.0.

"The demographic dividend for India is at its peak right now. Our trainers will need to be trained in the delivery of content using digital technologies and digital content," said Ved Mani Tiwari, COO and acting CEO of NSDC.