TIL Limited, a manufacturer of material handling and defence equipment, is undergoing a strategic overhaul under the ownership of the Gainwell Group, which has committed an investment of approximately INR 10 billion across the group to support business expansion. The company aims to enhance its global footprint and diversify its product offerings, while increasing manufacturing efficiency and technological capabilities.
TIL is planning to extend its reach into international markets, including Asia Pacific, Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. The company is also pursuing opportunities in export and retail segments, building on existing partnerships and preparing to launch 5–6 new product categories outside of the defence sector within the next two years.
On the manufacturing front, TIL is implementing process optimization and capacity utilization initiatives to enhance operational efficiency. A capacity utilization project has been undertaken in collaboration with IIM Mumbai, aiming to align incentives with productivity goals and streamline workflows. Rough terrain crane production, earlier limited to the Kamarhati facility, has been expanded to the Kharagpur unit.
The company operates two primary manufacturing facilities in West Bengal. The Kamarhati plant, located near Kolkata, is focused on mobile crane manufacturing and caters to the defence sector. It has a built-up area of 26,000 sq.m with a dedicated crane assembly line for machines ranging from 10 to 100 tons. The Kharagpur facility specializes in container handling equipment, including ReachStackers produced under license from Hyster-Yale Group. It features a 1 MW solar plant meeting approximately 90 percent of its energy needs.
TIL is also expanding its defence capabilities. It is DRDO-registered and manufactures specialised equipment for the Indian Army, Air Force, and Navy. The current order book includes approximately INR 800 million of confirmed defence and non-defence orders, with an additional INR 750 million in the pipeline. The company continues to work with military and defence research agencies on new initiatives.
A key area of growth is expected in exports and retail, where newer products—especially those developed in collaboration with Hyster-Yale—are being readied for production. Expanded product lines include high-capacity forklift trucks and empty container handlers.
Founded in 1944 and headquartered in Kolkata, TIL Limited manufactures infrastructure and defence equipment including mobile cranes, ReachStackers, and container handlers. It operates two manufacturing facilities in West Bengal and maintains partnerships with international firms such as Hyster-Yale and Manitowoc. TIL was acquired in 2024 by the Gainwell Group through Indocrest Defence Services Private Limited.
