KOCHI: Here is an interesting trivia. Did you know the power generators for missile projects like Prithvi, Trisul and Akash - considered India’s pride - were made by a state-run company in Kerala? Now you do. You will be also glad to know the Kerala Electrical and Allied Engineering Co Ltd (KEL) is now back on the revival track after a brief hiatus with various lucrative projects knocking on its doors.
KEL managing director Colonel Shaji M Varghese told Express with the market becoming competitive over the years, initiatives have been taken to slingshot KEL to the top of the segment.
“Quality-wise, KEL’s products are superior. Attempts are being made to diversify it into other potential segments. KEL is known for its products like transformers and generators. But we possess the infrastructure to test the waters in other segments too,” said Shaji. “We are already working on various projects related to solar power units and are in discussion with leading automobile manufacturers on developing the prototype of world-class traction motors for electric vehicles. We are also working on bringing out smart electric meters for domestic use,” he said.
Providing electric generators to the defence sector has been KEL’s forte. Now, the company provides generators to the Pinaka missile project. Though its ties with defence companies slackened recently, discussions are on to reinvigorate the deals.
Many feathers
KEL is credited with providing alternators for radar applications to the Army and Air Force and for the Navy’s Antarctica expedition. The transformers installed at the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant in Tamil Nadu are manufactured by KEL. It also introduced brushless alternator technology in the Indian Railways and constructed around 70 lattice and suspension bridges.
Shaji, an Army man who had a stint with the DRDO-led KEL back in the 70s and 80s, said, “The 70s and 80s were certainly the golden period of KEL as it was actively involved in various crucial projects for defence and infrastructure. We are looking to revive those days. Talks with various defence organisations are under way,” he said.
Though KEL suffered a loss last fiscal, Shaji is confident the company’s fortunes can be turned. The state government’s policy to support public sector companies has come as a boon for KEL. “The budget allocation was favourable to public sector companies. Unlike private companies, our target is not just making profits but also serving society,” Shaji said.