Global benchmarks
to thank the Government for accepting SIAM’s suggestion of fleet modernisation. The industry will be happy to offer incentives to customers to supplement the incentive the government will offer for the purchase of new vehicle against a scrapped vehicle,” expressed Dasari. The session titled ‘Sustainable Mobility for Creation of Wealth of Nations’, as part of the annual convention, saw prominent industry figures participate. Discussion focused on India setting the trends – global benchmarks, rather than follow them by pursuing innovation and best practices. Gunter Butschek, MD and CEO of Tata Motors averred that the Indian economy is witnessing an unprecedented advantage compared to other countries since it is home to the world’s largest young population. “The Indian automobile industry contributes 40 per cent to the nation’s manufacturing GDP, and is surrounded by a cloud of opportunities,” he expressed. Drawing attention to challenges like safety, pollution, unemployment and lack of adequate resources, Butschek explained that it is imperative for leading automobile manufacturers to focus on developing ‘sustainable mobility solutions’ and nurture skilled engineers and people managers rather than technocrats and theory masters. “New developments like safety norms, GST and scrappage policy will be an opportunity to counter such challenges,” he added.
Wilfried Aulbur, Managing Partner India, Chairman Middle East & Africa, and Head Automotive Asia, Roland Berger India, stated that the automotive industry is a significant driver for FDI in India. It also drives process improvements and quality. Aulbur stressed upon the need to stimulate volumes to boost GDP and create more job opportunities, A holistic, long-term policy is required, he opined.
In the interest of safety
Participating in a discussion under the theme, ‘Technology Trends’, Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport, Highways and Shipping, praised the auto industry’s performance and assured of his government’s support to avail new technologies. Speaking via video recorded message, he appreciated industry’s support to solve pollution problems and agree to move to BSVI from BSIV emission norms. “The automotive sector is on the road to growth and success with a turnover of Rs.450,000 crore. It is generating employment, and the government is seeking ways