Gadkari Targets World’s Top Spot For India’s Auto Industry In Five Years

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari announced on Wednesday that the Indian government aims to elevate the country's automobile sector to the world's top position within the next five years. Speaking at an event in the capital, Gadkari described the goal as challenging but achievable, citing India's trained workforce, high-quality manufacturing at competitive costs, and the presence of major global automakers.

This ambition builds on the sector's rapid expansion, positioning India as a key player in the international market amid a shift toward sustainable mobility. Under Gadkari's tenure, the Indian auto industry has grown significantly, from a valuation of Rs 14 lakh crore to Rs 22 lakh crore. He compared this to global leaders: the United States at Rs 78 lakh crore and China at Rs 47 lakh crore.

The minister highlighted India's annual Rs 22 lakh crore expenditure on fossil fuel imports, which exacerbates pollution issues. To address this, he emphasised the push for electric vehicles (EVs), noting that Indian firms are producing cost-effective electric cars, buses, and trucks. With lithium-ion battery prices declining, Gadkari predicted parity in costs between EVs and traditional petrol or diesel vehicles soon.

Gadkari pointed to untapped opportunities in electric buses, where domestic production capacity stands at 50,000-60,000 units annually, against a national demand of 100,000 and strong export potential. The ministry is also promoting flex-fuel engines for agricultural equipment to reduce reliance on imported fuels.

Addressing social media concerns about E20 fuel—a blend of 20% ethanol with petrol, launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2023—Gadkari acknowledged resistance from the petroleum lobby. Ethanol, derived from sugarcane and rice, aims to cut India's 88% crude oil import dependency, mitigating vulnerability to global price fluctuations.

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These developments reflect broader efforts to foster innovation and sustainability in India's auto sector, which employs millions and contributes substantially to GDP.

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