Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, is determined to transform India into an eco-friendly economy. His plan includes a significant reduction in GST on hybrid vehicles and a commitment to eliminate the country’s 36 crore petrol and diesel vehicles.

When questioned about the feasibility of completely removing petrol and diesel cars from India, Gadkari confidently responded, “Absolutely.” He acknowledged the challenge but remained optimistic, stating, “It’s a tough task, but not an impossible one. This is my vision.”

Gadkari pointed out that India spends Rs 16 lakh crore on fuel imports. He envisions this money being redirected to enhance the lives of farmers, bring prosperity to villages, and create jobs for the youth.

While he didn’t provide a specific timeline for achieving this ambitious goal, which many green energy advocates consider extremely challenging, he remains committed. He has proposed reducing the GST on hybrid vehicles to 5% and on flex engines to 12%, a proposal currently under consideration by the Finance Ministry.

Gadkari firmly believes that promoting biofuels can help India end its dependence on fuel imports. Environmental activists have welcomed his vision for a greener India, although they caution against the continued use of fossil fuels in electricity production.

Nitin Gadkari
Image : Times of India

Avinash Chanchal, a campaigner for Greenpeace India, emphasized the need for a shift away from a fossil fuel-based energy system for powering electric cars. He stressed the urgency of ensuring 100% renewable energy to accompany electric vehicles in order to address the climate crisis.

Gadkari, who has advocated for alternative fuels since 2004, is confident that significant changes will occur in the next five to seven years. He couldn’t provide a specific date for this transformation, acknowledging its difficulty, but remained steadfast in his belief that it’s achievable.

He is optimistic about the rapid introduction of electric vehicles and believes the future will be dominated by alternatives and biofuels. He also mentioned that auto companies like Bajaj, TVS, and Hero plan to manufacture motorcycles with flex engines, and similar technology for auto rickshaws is in the pipeline.

Gadkari, who drives a hydrogen-powered car, noted the increasing prevalence of electric cars. He stated that those who once doubted the feasibility of such a transformation are now starting to believe in his vision, which he has been promoting for the past 20 years.

He highlighted the introduction of hydrogen-powered trucks by Tatas and Ashok Leyland, and trucks running on LNG/CNG. He also mentioned the existence of 350 bio-CNG factories across the country.

Gadkari firmly believes that a revolution is underway. He envisions an end to fuel imports and a self-reliant India, embodying the spirit of Atmanirbhar Bharat.

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