At the 65th Annual Convention of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), industry leaders and policymakers gathered to discuss the vital role of sustainable mobility in realizing Viksit Bharat by 2047.
In his special message, Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi stressed the importance of achieving true self-reliance across the entire automotive manufacturing value chain. He further stated, “As India moves toward global leadership in green and smart transportation, the opportunities for investment and collaboration are immense.”
Chief Guest Shri Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Government of India, outlined the Government’s vision for sustainable transportation, stating, “As the world’s third-largest automobile industry, India must prioritize comfortable public transportation. We will continue to align with global BS7 and CAFE norms to tackle air pollution. Additionally, transitioning to biofuels helps reduce crude oil imports and supports farmer incomes. Over 3 lakh vehicles have been scrapped under the scrappage policy, benefiting the industry, government, and environment alike.”
He added, “Logistics costs are expected to drop to single digits by the end of the year. Road safety remains a top priority. Public awareness campaigns and NGO involvement are essential to improving human behavior and preventing accidents. To support those who assist accident victims, ‘Rahaveers’ will receive Rs. 25,000, along with insurance coverage of up to Rs. 1.5 lakh for the victims.”
Guest of Honour, Shri H. D. Kumaraswamy, Hon’ble Union Minister of Heavy Industries and Steel, Government of India, highlighted that under the PLI scheme, companies have already invested more than Rs. 29,500 Cr of capital investments and MHI is working closely with all stakeholders including Indian auto industry to meet domestic sustainability goals. He also highlighted that steel industry is looking at developing specialized steel for auto sector to reduce its import dependence.
Mr. Shailesh Chandra, President, SIAM and Managing Director of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd. and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., said, “The Indian automotive industry is fully aligned with the Government’s vision for sustainable, safe, and affordable mobility solutions. The Industry is grateful to the Government of India for landmark decision of reducing the GST rates on vehicles and thanked the Government for initiating the development of Automotive Mission Plan. The industry will work cohesively for our shared objective of Building the Nation, Responsibly. ”
Mr. Shenu Agarwal, Vice President, SIAM and Managing Director & CEO, Ashok Leyland Ltd., thanked the Government for the conducive ecosystem that has been created for this industry to prosper.
