Shikhar Group of Industries
“When your entrepreneurial journey is fueled by your passion, and you truly enjoy what you do, you’ll never work a day in your life.” – Mr. Champalal Bothara, Managing Director
“Entrepreneurs of today’s age are proactive about experimenting and learning much faster than fearing the failures.” – Mr. Pradeep Dugar, Managing Director
Introduction
The journey we are about to explore today is one of resilience, risk-taking, and innovation. From humble beginnings to becoming Nepal’s most trusted manufacturing group, Shikhar Group of Industries has navigated challenges with integrity—adapting to changing markets and using technology to emerge as a leader in both the plywood and cable sectors.
Catering to major industries such as infrastructure, construction, housing, and energy, Shikhar Group of Industries has received accolades from high-profile dignitaries for the quality-driven products it consistently delivers.
To gain deeper insights into the visionaries steering this success, our team had the privilege of inviting Mr. Champalal Bothara and Mr. Pradeep Dugar, the founding duo of Shikhar Group of Industries, for an enthralling interview. This editorial encapsulates the enlightening words shared by them, and with great excitement, we present their story under the edition titled “The 10 Most Prominent Manufacturing Business Leaders Redefining Quality and Efficiency in 2025.”
Prime insights: It is an honour to have both of you with us today. We look forward to an engaging and insightful conversation. Mr. Bothara and Mr. Dugar, could you please begin by sharing a brief overview of your company’s inception story?
Shikhar Group of Industries, established in 1996, is Nepal’s premier manufacturer of high-quality plywood and cable products. With a commitment to excellence and innovation, the company offers a wide spectrum of products crafted using premium raw materials and advanced manufacturing techniques. Their products are specially curated for meeting diverse industrial and infrastructure needs across the nation.
The journey began in 1986 with a plywood shop in Kathmandu by both of us. The business steadily grew, and by 1996, we laid the foundation of our first manufacturing unit, officially establishing Shikhar Group. Since then, we’ve expanded significantly, guided by perseverance, innovation, and a strong entrepreneurial vision.
Prime Insights: With the manufacturing sector evolving rapidly, how do you ensure your company stays ahead of industry trends?
We stay ahead by consistently adopting cutting-edge technology, automating production, and building a culture of continuous improvement. Our leadership encourages forward-thinking strategies that allow us to remain agile and innovative in a competitive and ever-evolving manufacturing landscape.
Prime Insights: Could you elaborate on the significance of research and development (R&D) within your manufacturing operations? Additionally, how does your organization prioritize and foster innovation across its processes?
R&D is integral to our operations. We invest in the latest technologies and continuously upgrade our processes to create products that meet global standards. Innovation is embedded in our culture, driving long-term sustainability and growth for Shikhar Group of Industries.
Prime Insights: What initiatives have you implemented to enhance operational efficiency and maintain high-quality standards?
We’ve implemented automation across our several manufacturing facilities, significantly reducing manual labor efforts and improving precision. Our systems ensure that each product adheres to the highest quality benchmarks while optimizing resource use and reducing production costs. These technologies have significantly improved consistency, reduced errors, and enabled mass production with minimal resource wastage, ensuring our products meet both market and global expectations.
Prime Insights: How do you ensure your employees remain motivated and engaged? What steps do you take for their well-being and professional growth?
Our employees are the backbone of our success. At Shikhar, we are proud to have built a collaborative culture where over 1,000 team members work towards shared goals. To keep them updated about the latest technological advancements that are sure to become inevitable in our industry, we invest in organizing skill development trainings for them. All while upholding mutual respect, we provide a positive work environment that nurtures both personal and professional growth.
Prime Insights: How do you view the role of strong leadership in driving innovation and success in the manufacturing sector?
As we move towards advancements, the responsibilities of a leader or an entrepreneur behind an organization are also growing steadily. It demands more effort and strategic planning than ever before to build a strong workforce and an encouraging work environment. Hence, our collective advice would be that leaders and entrepreneurs of today’s age should believe in their vision and inspire their teams to hold that belief as well. Challenges are inevitable, but integrity, innovation, and adaptability will set you apart. Build a team that shares your goals, and never hesitate to reinvent when the times demand it.
Prime Insights: Speaking of the key milestones and achievements that have shaped your company’s growth journey, which ones would you consider most significant and would like to share with us?
Starting from a single manufacturing unit in 1996, we’ve grown into a nationwide conglomerate with several production units. Recognition from Nepal’s top dignitaries, successful implementation of automation, and expansion into new sectors are some of the milestones that define our remarkable journey.
Prime Insights: In what ways does your company contribute to social responsibility? Can you highlight some impactful CSR initiatives?
Our CSR initiatives include the ‘ShikharGoesGreen’ campaign, through which over 5 million trees have been planted. We also practice zero-waste manufacturing, use eco-friendly fuels, and contribute to sustainable farming, improving both the environment and the livelihoods of local communities.
Prime Insights: What future plans or expansions do you envision for your company in the coming years?
We aim to diversify into real estate, retail, and housing complexes while continuing to expand our manufacturing footprint. Our focus remains on innovation, sustainability, and making Shikhar Group the largest and most trusted industrial conglomerate in Nepal.
Our edge lies in the synergy of innovation, premium quality, and sustainability. With strong leadership, commitment to customer satisfaction, and continuous investment in technology, we remain adaptable and competitive — not just within Nepal but across the broader regional market.
