Prime Minister Modi and Leaders Discuss Sustainable Mobility at SIAM Convention

New Delhi [India], September 10: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a written address to the annual convention of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), emphasized the need for the automobile sector to set an example for others to follow. Modi stated that the automotive industry will drive higher economic growth and thrive on demand growth.

Focus on Sustainable Mobility

At the 64th Annual Convention of SIAM, the theme was ‘Sustainable Mobility Journey towards Viksit Bharat.’ Prominent leaders and policymakers discussed the pivotal role of sustainable mobility in achieving the goals of Viksit Bharat by 2047. Prime Minister Modi highlighted the importance of rapid and sustainable progress, stating, ‘Working on greener and cleaner mobility is a vital step in this direction.’

Government Initiatives

Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, the chief guest at the event, highlighted the government’s vision for sustainable transportation. He stated, ‘The automobile industry plays a pivotal role in realizing the Prime Minister’s vision of transforming India into a 5 trillion-dollar economy and elevating it to the third largest economy globally. Innovation and sustainable practices in the auto sector are crucial as we target a carbon-neutral status by 2070.’

Union Minister of Heavy Industries and Steel, H D Kumaraswamy, spoke on the importance of industrial growth aligned with sustainability goals. He said, ‘Enhanced by our Prime Minister’s sustainability pledges in Glasgow and robust Make in India initiatives, we are aggressively promoting electric mobility.’

Industry Leaders’ Insights

Vinod Aggarwal, President of SIAM and Managing Director and CEO of Volvo Eicher Commercial Vehicles Ltd., highlighted the automobile industry’s role in driving sustainable mobility. ‘The automobile industry is keeping pace and setting the standards for sustainable growth. Contributing 6.8 per cent to the GDP and witnessing an impressive 12.5 per cent growth last year alone, the industry’s turnover has soared to Rs 20 lakh crore,’ he said.

Shailesh Chandra, Vice President of SIAM and Managing Director of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd. and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., emphasized the need for a collective effort to accelerate the transition to sustainable mobility. ‘The government’s strong commitment to sustainable mobility and the constant support from the ministries have facilitated the industry’s transition to sustainable mobility,’ he stated.

Rajesh Menon, Director General of SIAM, was also present during the session and highlighted SIAM’s various initiatives and commitment towards sustainable mobility.