Integrating Labour Productivity in Indian Construction Industry through Introduction of Smart and Automated Equipment: A Review

The Indian construction industry, a cornerstone of national economic development contributing nearly 9% to GDP, continues to confront challenges of low labour productivity, skill shortages, and technological inertia. Persistent inefficiencies, fragmented workforce structures, and dependence on outdated techniques have constrained productivity growth despite rapid infrastructure expansion. Contemporary research highlights the transformative potential of smart technologies such as AI, automation, robotics, and Building Information Modelling (BIM) to address these limitations. These innovations foster operational accuracy, safety, and timeliness while reducing reliance on manual labour. However, barriers such as high capital costs, inadequate training, and workforce displacement concerns remain critical. This review consolidates findings from national and international studies on labour productivity determinants, adoption of automated equipment, and digital integration trends. It further identifies government and industry-driven enablers, including digitization policies, workforce skill development programs, and the push toward sustainable construction. The study concludes that synchronized adoption of automation, mechanization, and digital tools is essential to elevate productivity, improve project quality, and ensure India’s competitiveness in the global construction ecosystem by 2030.