Few leaders in India’s cutting tools industry combine deep technical understanding with a larger vision for nation-building in manufacturing. Tosher G Hormusjee, with over two decades of hands-on experience, belongs to that rare group. Through GUSTI TOOL WORKS LLP (GTW) and the broader GUSTI Vision, he is not just building a world-class tooling company, but also shaping an integrated ecosystem that connects industry, academia, technology, and talent. In this exclusive interview-style life story, Tosher reflects on his journey, philosophy, and enduring contribution to India’s cutting tools and precision manufacturing landscape.
Q: Tosher, take us back to the beginning. What shaped your journey in the cutting tools industry?
My journey is deeply rooted in my family and in engineering values instilled early on. My father, Late G. M. Hormusjee, and I founded G.W. Precision Tools India Pvt. Ltd. in 1997 with a clear vision—to bring world-class tooling solutions to India through global collaboration. At that time, Indian manufacturers were capable, but access to advanced tooling, coatings, and application know-how was limited. We partnered with Günther Wirth of Germany to bridge that gap. Those early years taught me that cutting tools are not commodities; they are productivity enablers.
Q: How did this experience lead to the birth of GUSTI TOOL WORKS LLP?
By 2015, after more than 20 years in the industry, I felt the need to build something future-ready—something that went beyond products. That was the genesis of GUSTI TOOL WORKS LLP, a venture by my family and me. GTW was conceived as a high-precision, high-productivity tooling solutions provider, aligned with global manufacturing standards. But equally important was embedding knowledge, application engineering, and technology into every solution we deliver.
Q: GTW is often described as part of a larger “GUSTI Vision.” What does that mean?
GUSTI is not just a company—it is a Technology Engine Creation concept. The idea is to bring together industry, academia, technology providers, entrepreneurs, and associations on a neutral, non-partisan platform. Manufacturing excellence cannot exist in silos. Skills, processes, and technology must evolve together. GUSTI aims to become a centre of excellence where manufacturers—small, medium, or large—can access competencies, training, and advanced manufacturing services with speed, precision, and consistency.
Q: From an industry perspective, what gap does GTW fill today?
Tosher: Modern manufacturing has moved beyond cost-per-component thinking. Today, customers look at Cost of Ownership, tool life, dimensional and structural tolerances, and process reliability. GTW positions itself as a one-stop solution provider—from standard and special carbide tools to PCD tools, boring bars, milling cutters, holders, and fixtures. Our strength lies in performance metal cutting and deep application knowledge. This ensures that customers don’t just buy tools—they gain productivity and competitiveness.
Q: Tell us about GTW’s manufacturing capabilities and quality philosophy.
Our Bengaluru facility is built to global benchmarks. It houses some of the world’s most accurate CNC tool grinding machines, advanced automation, and high-end measuring systems. Every GTW product undergoes 100% inspection and full traceability. We operate under integrated management systems including ISO 9001, AS 9100, ISO 14001, and ISO 45001. Quality, for us, is not a department—it’s a mindset that runs through design, manufacturing, inspection, and service.
Q: Industry 4.0 and sustainability are major themes today. How is GTW addressing them?
We embraced Industry 4.0 early. Our CNC machines are connected, inspections are automated, and production is monitored in real time. We are now exploring AI-driven optimisation in CNC programming and tool design to shorten development cycles. Sustainability is equally critical—extending tool life, recycling carbide scrap, energy-efficient grinding, and paperless workflows are all integral to our operations. Our facility is eco-friendly, with rainwater harvesting and advanced coolant and air management systems to reduce our carbon footprint.
Q: Beyond business, you are actively involved with industry bodies. Why is that important?
Manufacturing growth needs collaboration and advocacy. I am currently associated with initiatives under FICCI for the southern region and actively engaged with the South Western Regional Council of the Indo-German Chamber of Commerce. These platforms help align Indian manufacturing with global best practices. Knowledge-sharing at this level ultimately benefits the entire cutting tools ecosystem.
Q: Your interests outside work seem equally diverse. Do they influence your leadership style?
Absolutely. My interests in classic automobiles, aerospace restoration, wildlife, angling, horses, and pets keep me grounded. They teach patience, respect for craftsmanship, and attention to detail—qualities that directly translate into engineering and leadership. Being a Rotarian has also reinforced the importance of service and ethical responsibility.
Q: What role does GUSTI play in skill development and academia–industry integration?
This is one of GUSTI’s core purposes. India urgently needs an integrated development engine where technology, human skills, and processes evolve together. GUSTI will establish formal relationships with universities, skill centres, associations, and chambers, creating a shared platform for innovation and learning. By being agnostic and inclusive, GUSTI ensures that every stakeholder’s contribution is valued and visible.
Q: Finally, what lies ahead for GTW and your contribution to the cutting tools industry?
Our roadmap is ambitious yet focused. We plan to expand capacity with advanced CNC tool grinding machines, diversify into PCD and CBN tooling, strengthen exports to Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, and partner with global leaders in coatings and raw materials. Workforce training remains a priority. My vision is to see GTW recognised globally as a benchmark in customised cutting tools—driving innovation, sustainability, and unmatched customer value. If we can elevate Indian manufacturing through technology and competence, that will be my greatest contribution to the cutting tools industry.
This life story reflects not just the journey of an entrepreneur, but the evolution of a thought leader committed to building a stronger, smarter, and globally competitive Indian manufacturing ecosystem
