Union Minister Nitin Gadkari recently delivered a powerful message regarding the future of diesel vehicles in India. During a CII program, Gadkari urged citizens and car manufacturers alike to move away from diesel, emphasizing the need for India to transition towards cleaner, alternative fuels to achieve a pollution-free nation.
Gadkari’s Warning to Diesel Vehicle Manufacturers
Gadkari’s message to car manufacturers was clear and unambiguous: stop producing diesel vehicles. He warned that if this shift does not occur voluntarily, he would impose heavy taxes on diesel vehicles, making their production and sale economically unviable. In a bold statement, Gadkari indicated his intention to request an additional 10% GST on diesel vehicles from the Finance Minister, further discouraging their use.
The Push for Alternative Fuels
Gadkari has long been an advocate for reducing pollution and decreasing India’s reliance on fuel imports. He highlighted the benefits of alternative fuels such as ethanol, which he personally uses in his vehicle. According to Gadkari, ethanol is significantly cheaper than petrol, costing around ₹60 per liter compared to petrol’s ₹120 per liter. This cost advantage, combined with environmental benefits, makes ethanol a viable alternative for India’s future.
A Vision for a Diesel-Free Future
Looking ahead, Gadkari envisions a future where petrol and diesel vehicles are phased out within the next 10 years, replaced by electric vehicles (EVs). He pointed out the growing popularity of electric scooters, cars, and buses, noting that electricity costs are substantially lower than diesel. Gadkari’s vision aligns with global trends towards electrification in the automotive industry, driven by the need to combat climate change and reduce urban pollution.
Conclusion
Nitin Gadkari’s recent statements underscore the urgent need for India to transition away from diesel and other fossil fuels. His call to action for both consumers and manufacturers is aimed at fostering a cleaner, more sustainable future. With the potential imposition of heavy taxes on diesel vehicles and the promotion of alternative fuels like ethanol and electricity, Gadkari is steering India towards a pollution-free, eco-friendly automotive landscape.
