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In the face of COVID-19, the global access control industry has been in a frantic rush to find contactless solutions. For Indian solution providers, the struggle consists of a dual fight. They are not only working to deliver affordable contactless access control solutions to their customers but also grappling with a growing wave of anti-China sentiment.
The Battle with COVID-19:
Rakesh Sachdev, MD of Acetech Technologies, Mumbai, was quick to understand the emerging demand for contactless technology in the area of access control. He promptly prepared a document entitled “Contactless Technologies in Workplaces in the COVID Era.” This was not merely about implementing facial recognition for access control; it also meant developing solutions like motorized swing door and sliding door operators and introducing touch-free buttons that could open doors.
Though the customers have shown interest in these solutions, sales have suffered due to India’s country-wide lockdown. Roshan Bohra, Owner of ESSL, expressed reservations about the longevity of facial recognition systems. He said, “Almost all our sales after the outbreak have been facial recognition systems. But I expect this demand to flatten, mainly because India is a cost-sensitive economy.”
Others, like Sandeep Patil, Founder of Securizen, remain more hopeful. They cite previous instances that suggest a permanent shift toward contactless access control solutions.
Impact of Indo-China Border Dispute:
The anti-China sentiment grew amid the search for contactless solutions, ignited further by the Indo-China border conflict. Sandeep Patil shared an experience where a proposal involving Chinese brands was rejected, reflecting this sentiment. Sachdev had similar experiences, saying, “We recently received an inquiry for a facial recognition-based access control solution, integrated with thermal screening and mask detection, where they categorically said not to go for Chinese products.”
What’s the Conclusion?
While interest in contactless access control technology is evident, the Indian market seems to have adopted a wait-and-see approach for now. The spread of the virus in the next few months will be crucial in shaping the final decision.
Boycotting Chinese products is not currently practical in India. The ambition to create products entirely in India is strong, but there’s a long road ahead. The “Make in India” motto is filled with complexities.
