Gadkari Urges Shift to Alternative Fuels
Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has issued a strong call to action for India's automobile industry, emphasizing an urgent transition away from fossil fuels. Speaking at a recent industry event, Gadkari unequivocally stated that there is "no future" for diesel and petrol engines, urging manufacturers to adopt alternative energy sources like biofuels and cleaner technologies.
The minister highlighted India's heavy reliance on fossil fuel imports, which poses significant economic and environmental challenges. He stressed that the transport sector must focus on cost-effective, pollution-free, and indigenous solutions as the nation modernizes its mobility infrastructure and expands public transport.
Prioritizing Quality Over Cost
Beyond the shift to cleaner fuels, Gadkari delivered a stern message to bus manufacturers regarding quality standards. He asserted that the industry must be "quality-centric, not cost-centric," making it clear that safety and quality cannot be compromised. Gadkari warned against cutting corners in pursuit of lower costs, explaining that consumer preferences are increasingly favoring better products over cheaper ones, citing comfort, reliability, and safety as central to mobility expectations.
He drew an analogy, noting that customers do not choose inferior products merely because they cost less. This sentiment underscores the need for Indian manufacturers to elevate their standards to match international benchmarks.
Growth Opportunity in Electric Buses
Gadkari also pointed out a significant disparity in public transport, stating that India currently has only two buses per 1,000 people, compared to a global benchmark of eight buses per 1,000. India currently manufactures approximately 70,000 buses annually, generating a turnover of about ₹35,000 crore.
Looking ahead, the demand for electric buses alone could reach 1.5 lakh units over the next three years, presenting a massive growth opportunity for the sector. However, the minister also raised concerns about the quality of some buses currently being supplied, suggesting that certain manufacturers continue to secure orders despite their products not meeting expected standards due to high demand. Improving India auto quality is paramount for this expansion.