The 65th Annual Convention of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) brought together policymakers and industry leaders to deliberate on the role of sustainable mobility in building Viksit Bharat by 2047. In his special address, Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the importance of achieving self-reliance across the entire automotive manufacturing value chain. He highlighted the vast opportunities for investment and collaboration as India moves towards becoming a global leader in green and smart transportation.
Chief Guest Nitin Gadkari, Hon’ble Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways, shared the government’s roadmap for sustainable transport. He stressed on enhancing public transport, aligning with global BS7 and CAFE norms to combat air pollution, and promoting biofuels to cut crude imports while boosting farmer incomes.
He noted that over three lakh vehicles have already been scrapped under the scrappage policy, benefitting the industry, government, and environment. He added that logistics costs are expected to fall to single digits by year-end, while road safety campaigns and NGO partnerships will remain vital. To encourage bystanders to help accident victims, the government will award ₹25,000 to ‘Rahaveers’ and extend insurance coverage of up to ₹1.5 lakh for victims.
Guest of Honour HD Kumaraswamy, Hon’ble Union Minister of Heavy Industries and Steel, highlighted that companies have already invested more than ₹29,500 crore under the PLI scheme. He noted that the Ministry of Heavy Industries is working closely with stakeholders to achieve sustainability goals, while the steel sector is developing specialized grades for the automotive industry to reduce import dependency.
Shailesh Chandra, President of SIAM and Managing Director of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd. and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd, reaffirmed the industry’s alignment with the government’s vision of sustainable, safe, and affordable mobility. He expressed gratitude for the government’s decision to reduce GST rates on vehicles and for initiating the Automotive Mission Plan, reiterating the industry’s commitment to building the nation responsibly. Shenu Agarwal, Vice President of SIAM and Managing Director & CEO of Ashok Leyland Ltd, thanked the government for creating a supportive ecosystem that enables the industry to thrive.
The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) is the apex national body representing major vehicle and engine manufacturers in India. Registered under the Societies Registration Act, 1860, SIAM is dedicated to promoting the automobile industry’s contribution to India’s economic growth, supporting its social responsibilities, and improving efficiency and competitiveness. The organization actively works on initiatives related to environmental sustainability, road safety, and consumer protection. Recognizing these efforts, SIAM has been registered as a charitable institution under the Income Tax Act, 1961.
