The global award is the oldest and most recognised quality award in the world and is conferred upon companies with established processes of management for business operations.

Vinod K Dasari, Managing Director, Ashok Leyland, said: “It is indeed a proud moment for all of us at Ashok Leyland to receive this coveted prize. Becoming the world's first truck and bus plant and the only CV manufacturer based outside Japan, to win the prize, the award adds to the company’s achievements in delivering firsts. Housing the latest technology and processes, our Pantnagar plant is a fully-integrated plant capable of manufacturing all future products. Consistent quality, technology, innovation and robust processes are the pillars which have helped us garner international recognition and customer satisfaction.”

R Sivanesan, senior vice president of quality, sourcing and supply chain at Ashok Leyland, added that the company has been focusing on improving quality processes, besides working on a customer-oriented approach with regard to people management.

The Deming Prize was established in 1951 by the Japanese Union of Scientists and Engineers (JUSE) to honor W Edwards Deming, who contributed greatly to Japan’s proliferation of statistical quality control after World War II.