Nitin Gadkari | Business Upturn

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari mourns Asha Bhosle, calls her demise a “huge blow”

Rashmi Pandey — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 08:20:25 +0000

Veteran playback singer Asha Bhosle has passed away, and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has described her death as a “huge blow” to her family and to the nation’s musical heritage. Speaking on 12 April 2026, Gadkari said he shared a very close relationship with the legendary singer for several years and that Asha Bhosle, whom he affectionately Union Minister Nitin Gadkari mourns Asha Bhosle, calls her demise a “huge blow”

Veteran playback singer Asha Bhosle has passed away, and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has described her death as a “huge blow” to her family and to the nation’s musical heritage. Speaking on 12 April 2026, Gadkari said he shared a very close relationship with the legendary singer for several years and that Asha Bhosle, whom he affectionately called “Asha Tayi,” sang many songs in multiple languages. He added that her compositions remain popular across the world and that she is globally renowned for her voice and contribution to Indian cinema‑music.

Gadkari drew a direct comparison between Asha Bhosle and her sister Lata Mangeshkar, saying that the way Lata Mangeshkar brought laurels to India through her singing, Asha Bhosle “too did the same.” The minister emphasized that the manner in which both sisters shaped the sound of modern Indian film‑music has left an indelible mark on generations of listeners. Referring to Asha Bhosle’s passing, he said, “Her demise is a huge blow to her family. We are all sad. May God give strength to the bereaved family and may her soul rest in peace.”

Open‑source records show that Asha Bhosle was widely regarded as one of India’s most versatile playback singers, with a career spanning more than seven decades and thousands of songs in Hindi, Marathi, Bengali, and several other Indian languages. Her collaborations with leading music directors and actors helped define the sound of multiple film‑eras, and tributes have poured in from across the country’s film and cultural circles. The minister’s remarks echo the broader national mood of mourning and gratitude toward her artistic legacy, even as the official family and medical‑institution channels confirm the details of her passing according to available public statements.

Key highlights

Nitin Gadkari calls Asha Bhosle’s death a “huge blow” to family

Praises her global reach and multilingual song repertoire

Compares Asha Bhosle to Lata Mangeshkar for national‑level glory

Describes long‑standing personal closeness to “Asha Tayi”

Government approves sale of Ferro Scrap Nigam Limited to Konoike Transport Co for Rs 320 crore

Markets Desk — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 11:35:34 +0000

The Alternative Mechanism, empowered by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA), has approved the highest bid of Rs. 320 crore from Konoike Transport Co. Ltd. for the sale of 100% equity shareholding of MSTC Ltd in Ferro Scrap Nigam Limited (FSNL) along with the transfer of management control. The decision was made by a committee comprising Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, and Union Minister of Steel H. D. Kumaraswamy.

FSNL, a 100% subsidiary of MSTC Ltd under the Ministry of Steel, was incorporated on March 28, 1979, to provide steel mill services, specializing in the recovery and processing of scrap from slag and refuse generated during iron and steel making across various steel plants.

The CCEA granted ‘in-principle’ approval for the strategic disinvestment of the entire equity shareholding of MSTC Ltd in FSNL in October 2016. The strategic buyer was identified through a two-stage auction process. Following a competitive bidding process, professional advisers, including a Transaction Adviser, Legal Adviser, and Asset Valuer, were appointed. A Preliminary Information Memorandum (PIM) inviting Expressions of Interest (EoI) from prospective bidders was issued on March 31, 2022, with the submission deadline initially set for May 5, 2022, and later extended to June 17, 2022. Six interested bidders expressed their interest, and five were shortlisted as qualified bidders.

The Qualified Interested Bidders (QIBs) conducted due diligence on the company, and security clearance was obtained from the Ministry of Home Affairs for four QIBs. The Request for Proposal (RFP) and Share Purchase Agreement (SPA) containing terms and conditions were issued on January 2, 2024, inviting financial bids. Two sealed financial bids were received by the due date of January 31, 2024.

Following the receipt of sealed financial bids, the reserve price for the transaction was independently fixed at Rs. 262 crore based on valuations carried out by experts. The two technically qualified financial bids were then opened in the presence of the bidders’ representatives. The bid submitted by Konoike Transport Co. Ltd. at Rs. 320 crore was the highest and above the reserve price. The other bid was from Indic Geo Resources Pvt. Ltd., a subsidiary of Chandan Steel Ltd.

The approval marks a significant step in the strategic disinvestment process, aiming to enhance efficiency and bring in private sector participation in the management of FSNL.

Shares in insurance sector surge after Nitin Gadkari calls for removal of 18% GST on insurance premiums

Aditya Bhagchandani — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 05:51:25 +0000

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has formally requested Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to eliminate the 18 percent Goods and Services Tax (GST) on life and medical insurance premiums. In a letter dated July 28, Gadkari argued that the tax imposes an undue burden on senior citizens and hampers the growth of the insurance sector.

Gadkari’s appeal highlights the impact of taxing insurance premiums, which he believes unfairly penalizes those seeking financial protection for their families. The minister’s call for tax relief follows a memorandum from the Nagpur Divisional Life Insurance Corporation Employees Union, which has pointed out the challenges faced by the industry due to this tax.

Following Gadkari’s announcement, shares in the insurance sector have experienced a notable uptick –

HDFC Life Insurance Company saw its stock rise by 1.39 percent, reaching ₹707. SBI Life Insurance Company’s shares increased by 1.24 percent to ₹1,742.45. ICICI Lombard General Insurance also saw a boost, with its shares climbing 1.16 percent to ₹1,990.30.

Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) is currently trading at ₹1,182.45, recovering from a day’s low of ₹1,170. Star Health and Allied Insurance Company’s stock is trading at ₹612.

The GST Council, which decides on tax issues, is expected to address this matter in their upcoming meeting in August. The last council meeting was held on June 22.

Nitin Gadkari urges Finance Minister to remove 18% GST on life, medical insurance premiums

Aditya Bhagchandani — Wed, 31 Jul 2024 05:39:32 +0000

Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, has formally requested Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to withdraw the 18 percent Goods and Services Tax (GST) on life and medical insurance premiums. In his letter dated July 28, Gadkari argued that this tax places an undue burden on senior citizens and impedes the growth of the insurance sector.

Gadkari stated that taxing insurance premiums effectively means taxing the uncertainties of life, which is unjust for those who seek financial protection for their families. He expressed concern that the high tax rate is discouraging people from investing in insurance and hindering the overall expansion of this crucial industry.

The minister’s request follows a memorandum submitted by the Nagpur Divisional Life Insurance Corporation Employees Union. The union highlighted the difficulties faced by the insurance sector due to the GST and called for relief measures. Gadkari also noted that the union has raised issues regarding the differential treatment of savings through life insurance and the need for income tax deductions for health insurance premiums.

The GST Council, which is responsible for making decisions on tax matters, is scheduled to meet in August to discuss various issues, including the GST on insurance premiums. The last meeting of the council was held on June 22.

Bharat New Car Assessment Programme to be launched by Nitin Gadkari on 22 Aug

Dixita Hazarika — Sun, 20 Aug 2023 15:26:19 +0000

On 22 August 2023, the much awaited Bharat New Car Assessment Programme will be launched by Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways. The launch is a step forward in the government’s commitment to improve road safety, with a rise in safety standards of motor vehicles up to 3.5 tonnes.

This programme aims for providing car buyers a way of comparison of vehicles on crash safety. In accordance with the Bharat NCAP, car producers may offer their vehicles voluntarily to be tested as per the Automotive Industry Standard (AIS) 197. Cars will be assigned star ratings for adult occupants and child passengers, based on their performance in the tests. These ratings may be used by the buyers to compare the safety levels of different vehicles before they decide which one is best for them to buy.

This is expected to improve demand for safer cars, which will in turn encourage car manufacturers to comply with customers’ needs. Indian cars will also be able to compete better on the global market with higher safety standards, which will increase the Indian car manufacturers’ export potential. The ministry stated that the programme aims for developing a safety-sensitive car market in India.

Nitin Gadkari announces plans for ethanol-powered vehicles and air-conditioned truck cabins: Report

Aditya Bhagchandani — Mon, 26 Jun 2023 11:11:06 +0000

Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced plans to introduce vehicles running solely on ethanol as fuel. During an event in Nagpur, Gadkari revealed his conversation with the chairman of Mercedes Benz, who stated that the company’s future focus would be on manufacturing electric vehicles exclusively.

Gadkari highlighted the upcoming introduction of ethanol-powered vehicles, including scooters from Bajaj, TVS, and Hero.

He also mentioned the forthcoming launch of the Toyota Camry car, which will operate entirely on ethanol and produce 40 percent electricity.

Additionally, Gadkari emphasized the need for air-conditioned cabins in trucks to ensure the well-being of drivers who often work long hours in extreme temperatures. While no specific deadline was given for the introduction of AC cabins, reports suggest it could begin in 2025.

India’s economy would reach $5 trillion by 2025: Nitin Gadkari

Aryan Jakhar — Fri, 16 Dec 2022 09:06:55 +0000

According to Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, India is on track to have a $5 trillion GDP by 2024–2025 and has the world’s fastest growing major economy.

Speaking at a FICCI-sponsored event, Mr. Gadkari stated that the goal of the federal government is to increase employment and growth in order to achieve sustainable development.

According to the minister of highways and road transportation, India would be crucial to meeting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.

He stated that India has to boost exports while lowering imports.

“We are also working on developing alternative, clean and green fuel like bio ethanol, bio-CNG, bio-LNG and green hydrogen,” he said, adding green hydrogen is the fuel for the future.

The minister claimed that the Indian auto sector is currently worth 7.5 lakh crore and that he intends to increase its value to 15 lakh crore. “This will create lots of new jobs.”

He also said his focus is on reducing cost of construction. “We are trying to minimise use of steel and cement.”

Road Ministry issues draft rules requiring rear seatbelt alarms

Aryan Jakhar — Wed, 21 Sep 2022 04:04:54 +0000

The Union Ministry of Road, Transport, and Highway has published proposed regulations that would require auto manufacturers to incorporate rear seatbelt alarm systems. The notification states that public comments on rule-making draughts must be submitted by October 5th.

Following the recent death of Cyrus Mistry, the former chairman of the Indian giant Tata Sons, in a car accident, the Centre has been considering enforcing the use of rear seatbelts. According to news accounts, he was not wearing a seat belt and was seated in the back seat.

Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road and Transport, ordered e-commerce businesses to stop selling gadgets that turn off seat belt alerts earlier this month.

By the end of 2024, Gadkari stated, his ministry wants to cut the number of fatalities from traffic accidents in half. The minister for the union cabinet also stated that the government planned to complete the draught for the requirement of six airbags in all automobiles this year.

Gadkari stated that he intended to strictly implement this law and that he would impose fines for non-compliance.

The World Bank said last year that one person dies in a car accident in India every four minutes.

Currently, front-seat passenger seat belt reminders are a requirement for all auto manufacturers.

Although Rule 138 (3) of the Central Motor Vehicle Rules (CMVR) states that rear seat passengers who are not wearing seat belts are subject to a ₹1,000 fine, most people are either ignorant of this rule or choose to disregard it. Even traffic officers rarely issue tickets to people in the back seat who aren’t buckled up.

In 2020, 15,146 people died and 39,102 were injured as a result of not using a seat belt, according to a data from the road ministry.

Nitin Gadkari asks OEMS to give discount on new vehicles after scrapping old vehicles

Dipankar Ray — Fri, 16 Sep 2022 11:40:24 +0000

Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister for Road and Transport has asked all manufacturers to give more incentives and discounts on buying new vehicles after the old vehicles are scrapped. An estimated amount of Rs. 50000 to Rs. 1 lakh can be awarded for trucks and buses and the amount of discount can be reduced if the car is smaller in size. This move would be beneficial to scrape vehicles according to him.

“My request to you I do not want to make it mandatory because some companies are ready and some are not is that you may give some discounts to persons who have scrapping certificates,” Gadkari said at the 62nd annual convention of Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM).

Minister had added that the steel ministry led by Jyotiraditya Scindia and the transport ministry had approached the finance ministry to give GST concessions for such discounts and that it will be a “win-win” situation for both sides. He stated that each old truck produces as much pollution as 15 new vehicles, underscoring the necessity of dismantling. “Currently, 1.02 crore automobiles can be submitted for scrap, according to our records. There are just 10 to 20 scrapyards “Gadkari remarked.

There is potential to open three scrapping centres in each area, according to the Union Minister. “You may buy copper, aluminium, steel, rubber, and plastic from such centres, which will also allow you to save 30% on the cost of your components. People who recycle their cars would boost the auto industry’s “business by 25%-30%,” he continued.

Mr Gadkari also mentioned the increase in petroleum imports which have increased and are leading to the increase in pollution and is also creating economic problems for the country.

Penalty for not using a seat belt in the backseat: Nitin Gadkari

Aryan Jakhar — Tue, 06 Sep 2022 14:39:40 +0000

Nitin Gadkari, the Minister of Road Transport & Highways, declared on September 6 at a gathering that drivers will be fined for having passengers in the back seats of their vehicles who are not buckled up.

The decision was made in response to the recent passing of business magnate Cyrus Mistry in a fatal auto accident while travelling to Mumbai. According to reports, Mistry was not buckled up while riding in the back seats. If he had buckled up, his life could have been saved.

Gadkari stated that the government will issue a statement outlining the consequences of a passenger not using a seatbelt in the following three days. “We have revised the rule to cover back seat passengers as well,” he said. “Previously, there was a penalty for not wearing a seatbelt for the driver and co-passenger only.”

The minister added that the idea is already being discussed with a number of auto manufacturers and that a beeper for not fastening a seatbelt will sound for those in the back seats as well. All new vehicles must have this function, regardless of price.

BJP removed Nitin Gadkari and Shivraj Singh Chouhan from Parliamentary board

Pranay Maniar — Wed, 17 Aug 2022 09:37:43 +0000

The Bharatiya Janata Party released a new list of members of the parliamentary as the party chief, J.P Nadda reconstituted the board.

The Parliamentary Board is the governing body of the Bharatiya Janata Party which takes day-to-day decisions on behalf of the National Executive. The National Executive sets up a Parliamentary Board consisting of the Party President and ten other members. The Parliamentary Board supervises the activities of the Parliamentary and Legislative groups of the Party.

The Board has removed Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. They were also pulled out of the central election committee.

New additions to BJP Parliamentary Board – BS Yediyurappa, Sarbananda Sonowal, K Laxman.

The Board, headed by the party's national president JP Nadda, will also have PM Narendra Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Union Home Minister Amit Shah. pic.twitter.com/RXbRfDDetz

— ANI (@ANI) August 17, 2022

New names on the board include former Karnataka Chief Minister BS Yediyurappa, former Assam Chief Minister and Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal, Sudha Yadav, Iqbal Singh Lalpura, and Satyanarayan Jatia.

The BJP’s central election committee has new members that include, Maharashtra deputy chief minister Devendra Fadnavis, Bhupendra Yadav and Om Mathur.

BJP releases a list of members of the party's Central Election Committee (CEC).

Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis included in the Committee. pic.twitter.com/wvUJAvoNzA

— ANI (@ANI) August 17, 2022

BS Yediyurappa and Sarbananda Sonowal find a place in both the panels.

Ola CEO Bhavish Aggarwal met Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi

Keertiman Upadhyay — Thu, 14 Apr 2022 09:40:10 +0000

Founder & CEO of Ola, Bhavish Aggarwal met with the Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi. The entrepreneur discussed the future of electric vehicles (EV) in India.

Aggarwal shared the development on his Twitter handle. “Met Shri @nitin_gadkari ji and discussed India’s potential to become world’s EV hub and Ola’s plans.”

Met Shri @nitin_gadkari ji and discussed India's potential to become world's EV hub and Ola’s plans. Demoed the scooter to him! His belief in bringing together an electric revolution and making sustainable mobility a reality is really inspiring for us at @OlaElectric! pic.twitter.com/eRhHcOHfOd

— Bhavish Aggarwal (@bhash) April 14, 2022

The Ola CEO had also shown a demo of the S1 Pro electric scooter to the transport minister. “Demoed the scooter to him! His belief in bringing together an electric revolution and making sustainable mobility a reality is really inspiring for us at @OlaElectric,” Aggarwal tweeted.

This development comes at times when several electric scooters have been reported to catch fire. The Centre has summoned the representative of EV makers & has ordered an investigation. Transport Ministry has handed over the investigation to the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru. Till now more than 100s scooters have caught fire.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has always been a visionary & has signalled several times that he plans to make India into an EV hub.

Govt aiming for construction pace of 50 km per day for national highways: Nitin Gadkari

Vaishali Pandey — Sat, 12 Mar 2022 14:08:37 +0000

Union minister Nitin Gadkari said on Saturday that the government is aiming for a 50-kilometre-per-day pace for national highway development in the country this fiscal year, with the expectation that the pace will be faster than in 2020-21. He said, “Now, we want to go up to (construct) 50 km per day (highway).”

Gadkari, speaking virtually at the ‘ET Global Business Summit,’ said the government is prioritising the development of the road network near the border districts of Arunachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, and Jammu & Kashmir.

In 2020-21, the country’s national highway (NH) building rate reached a new high of 37 kilometres per day. The minister of road transport and roads said this week that he had signed a file authorising the allocation of contracts for the building of a 1,000-kilometer expressway.

According to Gadkari, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd (NHIDCL) both had issues as a result of Covid-caused interruptions.

He also added, “But still for this (fiscal) year, up to the end of March, we will try to break the record of previous fiscal year’s highway construction.” At the same time, the minister stated that he aims to cut logistical costs. He also mentioned that logistics costs are currently 16% in India, 12% in China, 112% in the United States, and 10% in European nations.

Political reactions: Union Budget 2022

Vipul Sipani — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 08:53:46 +0000

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the budget in Parliament today. After the budget session of almost 2 hours, the Hon’ble Speaker adjourned the Lok Sabha till tomorrow.

Political reactions started floating on the internet as soon as today’s budget session ended.

Here are some of political reactions on Budget session led by FM Nirmala Sitharaman:

M0di G0vernment’s Zer0 Sum Budget: Congr leader Rahul Gandhi slams Union Budget 2022-23

M0di G0vernment’s Zer0 Sum Budget!

Nothing for
– Salaried class
– Middle class
– The poor & deprived
– Youth
– Farmers
– MSMEs

— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) February 1, 2022

Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari hails ‘historical Budget’ with ‘New India vision’ says it will accelerate ‘gati’ of economy

केंद्रीय बजट 2022 पर प्रतिक्रिया। #AtmanirbharBharatKaBudget #UnionBudget2022 https://t.co/fYYXfwz0rE

— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) February 1, 2022

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh praises #AtmaNirbharBharatKaBudget

This year’s Budget has increased the total outlay for effective capital expenditure by a massive 35.4 percent to more than 10.6 lakh crores with the bulk of the money going into the development of social and physical infrastructure in the country. #AtmaNirbharBharatKaBudget

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) February 1, 2022

FM, PM deeply disappoint Salaried & Middle Class in Direct Tax measures: Congress

Center wooing public at the cost of rising poverty, unemployment, inflation and farmer suicides: BSP supremo Mayawati

2. केन्द्र सरकार द्वारा अपनी पीठ आप थपथपा लेने से अभी तक देश की बात नहीं बन पा रही है। करों की मार लोगों का जीना दुभर किए हुए है। इसीलिए केन्द्र का भरसक प्रयास खासकर बेरोजगारी व असुरक्षा आदि के कारण लोगों में छाई तंगी, मायूसी व हताशा को कम करने की हो तो बेहतर। 2/2

— Mayawati (@Mayawati) February 1, 2022

Union Home Minister Amit Shah hails budget as ‘foresightful’, says will make India self reliant and lay foundation for new India in her 100th year of Independence

मोदी सरकार द्वारा लाया गया ये बजट, एक दूरदर्शी बजट है, जो भारत की अर्थव्यवस्था का स्केल बदलने वाला बजट साबित होगा।

ये बजट भारत को आत्मनिर्भर बनाने के साथ स्वतंत्रता के 100वें वर्ष के नए भारत की नींव डालेगा। इसके लिए @narendramodi जी और @nsitharaman जी का अभिनंदन करता हूँ।

— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) February 1, 2022

Budget has ZERO for common people: Mamata Banerjee

BUDGET HAS ZERO FOR COMMON PEOPLE, WHO ARE GETTING CRUSHED BY UNEMPLOYMENT & INFLATION. GOVT IS LOST IN BIG WORDS SIGNIFYING NOTHING – A PEGASUS SPIN BUDGET

— Mamata Banerjee (@MamataOfficial) February 1, 2022

Provision for every section of society: UP CM Yogi Adityanath hails Budget 2022-23 calling it ‘one of hope-aspirations’

केंद्रीय बजट 2022-23 पर… #AatmanirbharBharatKaBudget https://t.co/R17RBdF6kc

— Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) February 1, 2022

MoS Ashwini Choubey hails ‘Amrit Budget’, says women, small industries, and youth kept in mind, besides boost for infra and MSP for farmers

Union Agriculture Minister Giriraj Singh hails Union Budget for allocation to farmers, youth, and Gramin Sadak Yojana

Cong’s Tharoor terms Union Budget 2022-23 as ‘damp squib’, says there’s lack of substance in FM’s speech

Budget for Whom: CPIM leader Sitaram Yechury questions why super rich not being taxed

Govt introduces ‘Bharat’ series registration mark for vehicles, Check details here

Malvika Choudhary — Wed, 22 Dec 2021 16:37:02 +0000

The central government on Wednesday, December 22, introduced the Bharat series (BH) series registration mark for new vehicles across the country. The BH series registration is introduced to avoid the multiple registration issues faced by the vehicle owners in relocating from one state/UT to another.

“A personal vehicle of this registration mark won’t require assignment of a new registration mark when the vehicle owner shifts from one State to another”, Union Minister for road transport and highways, Nitin Gadkari, said in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha.

The registration mark will be available for defence personal, central and state government employees, employees of public centre undertakings and private-sector workers. It aims to facilitate the free relocation of vehicles across the state/ union territory.

What is the BH series registration mark?

The ministry of road transport and highways introduced a new registration mark for new vehicles, “Bharat series (BH-series)”, to facilitate seamless transfer of vehicles, on August 28, 2021. During applying for BH registration, the applicant has to pay the road tax for two years depending on the invoice price of the vehicle excluding GST. The amount varies for vehicles with prices in different slabs. Vehicles priced below ₹10 lakh will have to 8% tax, while vehicles priced between ₹10-20 lakh will be slapped with 10% tax. The vehicles that are priced above ₹20 lakh will draw a tax of 12%.

BH Series number plates aim to do away with Section 47 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. Karnataka has already commenced issuing the new BH series of registration numbers for a select group of personal vehicle owners. The group now only included the central government employees. Maharashtra also launched its BH series registration for the vehicles in October 2021.

Nitin Gadkari asks Tesla not to sell cars made in China, suggests Tesla vehicles should be ‘affordable’

Cheryll Jain — Sat, 09 Oct 2021 10:33:52 +0000

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said on Friday, October 8, that Electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer Tesla Motors has been asked not to sell cars in the country that have been manufactured in China. He instead proposed to the company’s CEO, Elon Musk, to start manufacturing Tesla cars in India.

In his address at the Game Changers: Climate Action session at the India Today Conclave 2021, he disclosed a conversation that occurred between him and Elon Musk, stating that he had asked the CEO to start the manufacturing process locally and export assembled cars from India. He also suggested that Tesla cars in India should be ‘affordable’ and thus priced at Rs.35 lakhs.

He affirmed that as part of the Atmanirbhar programme launched by the Modi government, the local production of batteries to power the vehicles is rising and Indian manufacturers shall be able to commence their export in the near future. Deeming this an added advantage for Tesla Motors, he stated that the Modi government is ready to extend all its support to the company to set up local manufacturing units in the country soon.

Gadkari’s comments alluded to the mutual interest between the Modi government and Elon Musk in having Tesla debut into the world’s fifth-largest automobile market, which has a reputation of being price sensitive.

Tesla has been gunning to kickstart the process of selling its electric vehicles in India but has been discouraged due to high import duties charged in the country. In order to secure the domestic manufacturers, the Indian government charges 100 per cent import duty on cars if their CIF (cost, insurance and freight) value exceeds $40,000 or has a petrol or diesel engine with a displacement of greater than 3,000 CC and 2,500 CC, respectively.

The ongoing attempts by Tesla to lobby with the Indian government to grant tax concessions and reduce the import duties levied on EV have not given fruitful results so far. Last month, the heavy industries minister had replied to Tesla’s attempt at negotiating by stating that any tax concessions can be considered once Tesla begins the manufacturing process of its cars in India.

“Flex-fuel engines in vehicles to be made mandatory in the next 3-4 months,” says Union Minister, Nitin Gadkari

Cheryll Jain — Fri, 24 Sep 2021 09:07:41 +0000

Nitin Gadkari on Friday announced that the orders to make flex-fuel engines mandatory in vehicles will be issued to all the automobile manufacturers in the upcoming 3 to 4 months. Earlier, the Union Minister of Road Transportation and Highways had stated that the government will announce a flex-fuel engine policy soon.

“In the next 3 to 4 months, I will be issuing an order, mandating all vehicle manufacturers to power vehicles with flex engines (that can run on more than one fuel),” Union Minister Nitin Gadkari said in a statement.

“We are committed to delivering vehicles with flex engine norms. We have taken a decision, we will make it mandatory by which there will be a flex-engine,” he further added.

The ministry stated that the main objectives of the policy are to lower the rising air pollution due to the carbon emission of fossil fuels as well as give consumers a more eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to petrol, which is a more expensive fuel and continues to hit record highs in price. The ministry further pointed out that a litre of bioethanol costs Rs 65 as against Rs 110 paid for petrol, therefore the use of alternative fuels will save on forex and help India’s economy

Running on green fuel, the flex-fuel engines will thus provide the vehicle owners with a choice to drive their cars on either petrol or ethanol.

Gadkari has been an active advocate for the development and use of flex-fuel in India similar to countries such as the USA, Canada, Brazil, etc, where its use has been a common practice for years. “India is committed to an eminently achievable clean energy-based economy, through an annual road-map for production, supply of ethanol till 2025-26, and systems for its countrywide marketing,” Gadkari said.

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari earns Rs 4 lakh monthly through YouTube

News Desk — Sat, 18 Sep 2021 07:25:45 +0000

On Friday, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari stated he receives Rs 4 lakh each month as royalty from YouTube, as viewership of his lecture videos published on the platform has increased during the pandemic period. While reviewing the development of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway (DME) in Bharuch, Gadkari in addition stated his ministry has commenced rating road construction contractors and consultants.

During COVID-19 times the highways minister stated, he did things. “I have become a chef and commenced cooking at home and giving lectures through video conference. I delivered more than 950 lectures online, such as lectures to foreign universities students, which have been uploaded on YouTube. Viewership of my YouTube channel increased and YouTube now pays me Rs 4 lakh, according to month as royalty,” he stated.

Gadkari, who’s recognized for his frank views, stated that in India, individuals who do appropriate work, do not get appreciation. The minister additionally emphasized the significance of a network of modern- and high-quality roads for monetary improvement and growing employment possibilities.

He stated that during Gujarat, 423 km of road is being built at Rs 35,100 crore. Gadkari brought that under this expressway, 60 major bridges, 17 interchanges, 17 flyovers and 8 roads over bridges (ROBs) could be built in the state. The minister stated 33 wayside facilities also are proposed to be constructed in this expressway to offer world-magnificence transport centres in addition to create employment possibilities in the state.

During this visit, Gadkari inspected the area where the world record for the fastest road construction in a day was set in February 2021. He further inspected an iconic bridge built across the Narmada river close to Bharuch. The -km-long extra-dosed cable span bridge could be India’s first eight-lane bridge to be built across the expressway.

PM Narendra Modi launches new vehicle scrappage policy

Vandana Nampoothiri — Fri, 13 Aug 2021 07:48:39 +0000

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday launched the Voluntary Vehicle-Fleet Modernization Program or the Vehicle Scrapping Policy. The new policy was launched during a virtual address at the Investor Summit in Gujarat.

“Vehicle scrapping will help phase out unfit & polluting vehicles in an environment-friendly manner. We aim to create a viable #circulareconomy & bring value for all stakeholders while being environmentally responsible.” PM Modi said in a tweet.

Vehicle scrapping will help phase out unfit & polluting vehicles in an environment friendly manner. Our aim is to create a viable #circulareconomy & bring value for all stakeholders while being environmentally responsible.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) August 13, 2021

In a series of tweets, Modi explained the various advantages of the policy which also include the exemption in road tax, lesser pollution, and lower accident rates.

“This policy reflects our commitment to reduce pollution from the cities of the country and protect the environment and fast development,” he added.

The Vehicle Scrapping Policy is aimed at creating an eco-system for phasing out unfit and polluting vehicles in an environmental friendly and safe manner. The policy intends to create scrapping infrastructure in the form of Automated Testing Stations and Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facilities across the country. The policy will be implemented for Central and state government-owned vehicles which are over 15 years.

Nitin Gadkari, Minister for Road Transport and Highways who was also present at the virtual conference said that the new policy will cut material costs by 40 percent.

Giridhar Aramane, secretary in the road transport and highways ministry said in a statement, “From 2023 onwards, heavy commercial vehicles need to be scrapped if they do not conform to the fitness level prescribed under the rules. For personal vehicles, we plan to implement this from June 2024 onwards.”

Government to unveil GPS based toll system in 3 months: Nitin Gadkari

Vandana Nampoothiri — Wed, 11 Aug 2021 09:53:00 +0000

Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari on Wednesday said that the government is formulating a new policy to replace toll plazas with GPS based tracking toll system.

As reported by MoneyControl, Gadkari while speaking at CII’s Annual Session also said that the GPS tracking system is currently not there in India but his ministry is working on developing the technology in India.

“I want to assure the House that within one year all physical toll booths in the country will be removed. It means that toll collection will happen via GPS. The money will be collected based on GPS imaging (on vehicles),” Gadkari said in the Lok Sabha during Question Hour.

He also urged road constructions companies and consultants to come up with new ways to reduce the use of steel and cement, as it increases the road construction cost.

According to MoneyControl, in December 2020, Gadkari had said that the new GPS-based system will be introduced for toll collection with Russian expertise where toll amount will be deducted from the commuter’s account or e-wallet based on the distance traversed.

India currently has the FASTag, an electronic toll collection system wherein the FASTag is fixed on the windscreen of the car. While passing through the toll booth, the FASTag will be scanned automatically, deducting money from the bank account.

After implementation of new motor vehicle law, over 7.67 crore challans issued for traffic violations

Diya S. — Mon, 09 Aug 2021 16:10:36 +0000

On Monday, Minister of Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, informed Parliament that government officials had issued more than 7.67 crore challans for traffic violations nationwide in 23 months after the implementation of the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019.

Gadkari said, “During the period of 23 months before the implementation of the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019 the number of traffic challans were 1,96,58,897; and after the implementation, the traffic challans are 7,67,81,726 during the same period of 23 months.”

According to the Minister, the number of challans had increased by 291 per cent as against 1.96 crore traffic violation challans issued 23 months before the implementation of the amended Motor Vehicles Act.

He highlighted that the massive increment in the number of fines as a result of the installation of camera-/speed gun-based automatic violation detection systems.

Furthermore, Gadkari stated that the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Act, 2019 has inserted a new Section 198A in the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988. The new section will deal with matters related to failure to comply with standards for road design, construction as well as maintenance.

In July, Gadkari had urged carmakers in India to focus more on vehicle build quality and safety features to bring them at par with international standards along with helping in reducing fatalities due to road accidents on the country’s roads.

The Minister added that vehicle manufacturing companies have a huge social responsibility to ensure that cars and two-wheelers do not compromise with global crash standards.

India’s national highways to match US standards by 2024, says Nitin Gadkari

Vandana Nampoothiri — Sun, 08 Aug 2021 07:15:21 +0000

Union Highways and Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari hopes that India’s National Highways (NH) will be on par with the US standards in the next three years. The remarks were made during a virtual conference on Saturday.

“National highways are growing at a very fast pace under the leadership of Modiji. In the coming three years, the entire country will get highways of American standard, so I believe. At one time we were constructing two km of road per day, and today we are constructing 38 km per day,” Gadkari said.

As reported by Hindustan Times Auto, Gadkari dedicated a 3.75-km long four-lane elevated corridor in Deesa town in Gujarat to the nation, during the virtual conference.

The transport minister also said that the Highway ministry has undertaken many projects in Gujarat including the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway that will pass through seven districts of Gujarat, under the Bharatmala Pariyojana.

The Vadodara-Mumbai Expressway which connects Vadodara to Kim in south Gujarat is a part of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway. The highway is built at a cost of Rs.8,711 crore and is expected to be completed by December 2021.

“This expressway will prove to be a big boon for tribals and backward areas of Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat. The highway will bring industry and trade which will benefit farmers. The expressway will work as a growth engine and will certainly take Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Rajasthan to the path of growth,” he added.

According to Hindustan Times Auto, the NHAI created a world record by completing a 25.54 km single-lane road in just 18 hours. The agency is also actively involved in the government’s vision for electric vehicle mobility. NHAI is planning to set up several EV charging stations that will help in boosting electric vehicle infrastructure in India in the coming days.

New guidelines on validity of driving license, vehicle documents- Check out!

Nitin Anand — Mon, 29 Mar 2021 14:35:34 +0000

The Ministry of road transport and highways (MoRTH) has released circular on March 26 which states that validity of driving license and vehicle documents which had expired since February 1, 2021 has been extended till 30th June.

The official twitter account of Ministry of Road Transport and Highways tweeted, “Taking into consideration the need to prevent the spread of COVID-19, MORTH has advised State and UT Govts that the Fitness, Permit (all types), License, Registration or any other concerned document(s) may be treated to be valid till 30 June 2021.”

Source: MORTHIndia (Twitter)

The government has extended the validity of documents like driving license (DL), registration certificate (RC) and permits till June 30, 2021due to the coronavirus pandemic. The deadline for the validity of these documents were earlier March 31, 2021. The ministry of road, transport and highways (MoRTH) issued an advisory to the states about the extension. The documents whose validity could not be granted due to the lockdown or had expired since February 1, 2021, or would expire on March 31, 2021, will all be given an extension, as told to states by MoRTH.

Driving license can also be renewed anytime now between one year before its expiry till one year after its expiry, a step which was taken will be likely to benefit citizens living away from their hometowns or who is visiting abroad. MoRTH said in circular that the decision “will help out citizens in availing transport-related services”.

Earlier advisories were issued in 2020 in the month of March 30, June 9, August 24 and December 27. The documents that will be eligible for the relaxation fall under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989.

It may be the last advisory in view of the extension of vehicle document validity. The government has also asked states to implement this advisory in letter and spirit, so that citizens do not face any issues and don’t get disturbed.

Meanwhile, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari told in Lok Sabha in a written reply on last Thursday that the rules and the passing percentage for the driving license test will be reformed. “In the case of a vehicle having a reverse gear, driving the vehicle backwards, reverse it into a limited opening either to the right or left under control and with reasonable accuracy is one of the parameters of qualifying in the driving skill test,” as quoted by news agency PTI.

Patanjali releases scientific research paper for first ever Covid-19 medicine

Chirag Jha — Fri, 19 Feb 2021 06:25:25 +0000

On Friday, Yoga Guru Ramdev has released a scientific research paper on the ‘first evidence-based medicine for Covid-19 by Patanjali’. Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari were also present at the event. The Yog Guru has also claimed it to be ‘the first evidence-based medicine for COVID-19‘.

Delhi: Yog Guru Ramdev releases scientific research paper on 'the first evidence-based medicine for #COVID19 by Patanjali'.

Union Health Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari are also present at the event. pic.twitter.com/8Uiy0p6d8d

— ANI (@ANI) February 19, 2021

Swami Ramdev said, “Our Covid-19 immunity boosters are solely abstract and compounds of Ayurvedic herbs like Giloy, Tulsi, Ashwagandha and have been effective in the treatment of coronavirus patients.”

On the occasion, Union Health & Family Welfare Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan said, “Ayurveda has Rs 30,000 Crore economy in India. As per official data, it used to see a growth of 15-20% every year pre-COVID. Post-COVID, this growth rate has risen to 50-90%. It’s an indication that people have accepted it. There’s marked improvement in exports & Foreign Direct Investment (FDI).”

In June last year, Patanjali had launched ‘Coronil and Swasari’, what it claims is the Ayurvedic cure for treating Covid-19. Acharya Balkrishna said that the medicine has shown 100 per cent favourable results during clinical trials on affected patients at Patanjali Yogpeeth in Haridwar.

Talking about the COVID scenario in India, the recovery rate has reached to an all time high of 97.30 per cent. As on 18th February, 2021, 6:00 PM, the total number of people vaccinated is 98,46,523.

Transport Ministry approves formula for recall of vehicles plying less than 7 years

Chittesh Dalmia — Wed, 30 Sep 2020 11:17:25 +0000

The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) headed by Mr. Nitin Gadkari has approved a new formula for recall of vehicles of a particular model, if there are complaints. Such triggered recall will be linked to the percentage of complaints received from consumers and the annual sale volume of that specific model. Vehicles with age of less than seven years will be applicable for recall, which will be determined from the date of manufacturing, import or retro-fitment.

According to a report from ETAuto, for mass selling products, the percentage of complaints to trigger the recall will be lesser considering the high volume of sales. The new provision for mandatory and voluntary vehicle recall has been included in the amended Motor Vehicle Act.

If the annual sale of a car is up to 500 units, then 100 complaints which is 20% of sold units, will be sufficient for the transport ministry to initiate the recall process. Where the annual sale of cars is over 500 units but less than 10,000 units, the number of complaints required have be at least 1,050. Additionally, if the annual sale of the car is beyond 10,000 units, the complaint count need to be at least 1,250.

Similar formula will be applicable to two-wheelers, three-wheelers and buses.

Auto industry should boost local manufacturing, invest in research and increase exports: Nitin Gadkari

Anjana Krishna — Mon, 07 Sep 2020 05:50:39 +0000

Several senior ministers of the Union government urged automakers to reduce their dependence on imports, increase exports, and make India a global manufacturing hub for automobiles and auto components at the annual conventions organized by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (Siam) and the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA), held on 4-5 September.

“I request the auto industry to not depend on imports, develop import substitutes, and expand its export business. The government will support you in increasing production and boosting employment potential,” said Nitin Gadkari, the Union minister for road transport and highways, and micro, small and medium enterprises. Government is also planning to set up industrial clusters along the 12-lane, 1,400km Mumbai-Delhi expressway. Gadkari said his ministry will take the responsibility for connectivity of the clusters to ports, railway stations and airports.

“The auto industry should reduce dependence on imports, specifically in areas such as steel, tyres, and electronic parts,” Union minister Piyush Goyal said. He also requested the industry to devise a viable model for setting up semiconductor fabrication units, which is the root component of the electronic chain.

He also mentioned that India is working towards a trade agreement with the European Union for India to become a preferred supplier. “We are also considering a credit guarantee model to help exporters. Under the model, they may get insurance of up to 90% of their export value. The scheme should be finalized soon,” Goyal said. Along with these schemes the government is also considering hiking import on auto components and reducing goods and services tax for two- and three-wheelers to revive local demand.

Delhi to Meerut in 45 minutes from December, Nitin Gadkari shares video

Pravin Suryawanshi — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 05:44:53 +0000

A drive from Delhi to Meerut in Uttar Pradesh will be a matter of just 45 minutes instead of nearly 1.30 hours taken currently. The expressway connecting the two cities is now almost complete. On Monday, Union Road and Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari announced a new deadline to complete the project, which is in December.

Gadkari took to Twitter to share a time-lapse video of the expressway, showing the progress of roadwork along the highway. Currently, the Delhi-Meerut expressway is operational phases.

The stretch between Akshardham in Delhi to UP Gate and the stretch between Dasna to Hapur is operational. The other two phases connecting UP Gate with Dasna and Dasna with Meerut are under construction.

The phase 1 of the project (Akshardham to UP Gate) caters to about 1.2 lakh passenger car units (PCUs) per day. Phase 2 (UP Gate to Dana) is about 19.2km while phase 4 (Dasna to Meerut) is about 32km and is being built as a six-lane access-controlled highway.

Nitin Gadkari Tweeted about the Delhi-Meerut expressway :

Delhi-Meerut Expressway will be completed by December 2020. It will further ease traffic and reduce pollution in Delhi/NCR. The aerial video gives us the glimpse of its ongoing and completed work. #PragatiKaHighway pic.twitter.com/TEqX0N0VHI

— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) August 30, 2020

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari responds to Anand Mahindra’s tweet about ecologically sustainable development

Aditi Swarup — Mon, 31 Aug 2020 19:08:45 +0000

The concern over environmental conservation is increasing as man-made climate change reaches more dangerous highs every day.

On 29th August, Indian billionaire businessman, Anand Mahindra tweeted the picture of an animal corridor that is built over a highway in the Netherlands.

In his tweet, Mr Mahindra said that he’d give a standing ovation if the Indian government could reach similar results.

Nitin Gadkari, who is the Minister of Road Transport & Highways (as well as Minister of Shipping and Minister of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) responded to the tweet thanking Anand Mahindra for the suggestion. He also said, “We tried developing an animal corridor on NH44 between Seoni (Madhya Pradesh) & Nagpur (Maharashtra) that gave us good results. Nevertheless, we shall continue striving towards our goal for peaceful coexistence between man and animal.”

The perfect way to coexist. @nitin_gadkari ji if you can make this a standard feature when building highways through particular zones, we will give you a standing ovation! https://t.co/vEN0FeIcLN

— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) August 29, 2020

Promoting the production of some goods to raise market share: Gadkari

Pravin Suryawanshi — Mon, 10 Aug 2020 12:42:19 +0000

New Delhi: Indian government is planning to promote the manufacturing of selected products, especially in areas where China enjoys a big share in the global market, as part of efforts to reduce imports and push exports, said minister Nitin Gadkari on Monday.

“The government aims to attract foreign investments in pre-identified areas, promote joint ventures and support local businesses to expand India’s share of global markets,” Gadkari said at a virtual conference, Reuters reported.

“There is an opportunity for India in sectors where China enjoys a big share in the global market,” he said.

In the last few months, the government has announced production-linked incentives for the manufacturing of electronics, medical devices, and pharmaceutical products while putting restrictions on imports of Chinese products.

Gadkari’s statement comes close on the heels of the Ministry of Defence preparing a list of 101 items for which there would be an embargo on their import.