India to Become Export Hub for Lithium-Ion Batteries

"I’m confident that we'll soon export lithium-ion batteries to different parts of the world," Gadkari said. He also highlighted ongoing research in new battery technologies, including aluminum-ion and other chemistries, which present huge market opportunities.

Gadkari projected that India's electric vehicle (EV) market could reach annual sales of one crore units by 2030, creating over five crore jobs. The sector, he noted, has the potential to become a ?20 lakh crore industry by the same year. He urged the automobile industry to prioritize quality, advanced designs, and the latest technology to remain competitive in both domestic and export markets.

To support this growth, Gadkari revealed plans for a world-class testing agency in Pune. The ?4.5 billion CIIT Training Institute will offer research and development facilities, providing vital services to the auto industry.

In addition to promoting EVs, Gadkari advocated for the industry’s cooperation in the government's vehicle scrappage policy. He highlighted how similar programs in the U.S. and Europe boosted auto sales by 9-12% and suggested that India's automakers could benefit from establishing their own scrappage centers.

“The automobile industry is key to achieving our vision of making India a $5 trillion economy and the world’s leading auto manufacturer,” Gadkari said, reaffirming the government’s focus on sustainable practices and innovation as part of India's long-term goals, including carbon neutrality by 2070.