FICCI : Industry's Voice for Policy Change

Mr Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI Aayog on Thursday said that NITI Aayog is committed to ensure the development of policy frameworks for accelerating sustainable finance flows in India to achieve its SDGs.

Addressing the Report Launch Event- India-UK Sustainable Finance Working Group by FICCI and City of London Corporation, Mr Kant said that India needs substantial investments to the tune of USD 260 billion every year to meet its sustainable development goals (SDGs) by 2030. “Govt of India, through the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme will be providing incentives to the tune of USD 26 billion, which also includes sunrise sectors of electric vehicles and solar power. India has been the second fastest growing market in sustainable investments,” he added.

FICCI and City of London Corporation on Thursday virtually launched the report, Practical Actions to Finance India`s Sustainable Recovery, under the India-UK Sustainable Finance Working Group. The report launch brought together key dignitaries on UK and Indian stakeholders who deliberated on ways to deepen UK-India partnership on sustainable finance.

Speaking at the event, Mr Uday Shankar, President, FICCI said that sustainable finance and climate change imperatives are closely intertwined, each being the trigger for the other. “As we move towards COP-26, the climate conference of parties in Glasgow later this year to be presided over by the UK, the India-UK Sustainable Finance Working Group can play a catalytic role in bringing clear implementable solutions to enable the policy ecosystem and market creation for sustainable finance in India to meet India’s climate priorities and sustainable development goals,” he added.

Lord Mayor of the City of London, Rt Hon Alderman William Russell said that he was delighted that the UK is working ever more closely with Indian partners as UK looks towards its hosting of COP26 later this year. “The UK India Sustainable Finance Working Group exemplifies these efforts and has gathered huge momentum to drive new capital into India’s sustainable finance framework,” he added.

The Lord Mayor also stated that the group’s latest report provides granular recommendations for government and the private sector to unlock capital for a sustainable recovery, which will be central to discussions as green finance continues to grow in India.

Hitendra Dave, India-UK Sustainable Finance Working Group & Managing Director and Head of Global Banking and Markets, HSBC India called the report as being one of the most comprehensive bodies of work on the sustainable finance agenda, and yet practical from the point of clear short-term and long-term recommendations that can now be picked up by relevant authority or regulators for further examination.

Richard Abel, UK Co-Chair, India-UK Sustainable Finance Working Group in India, and Managing Director, UK Climate Investments said that bringing together UK, City of London innovation and expertise with Indian market leaders has led to focussed, concrete proposals to increase sustainable capital flows.

Dr C S Mohapatra, Additional Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance said that the recommendations need to be fructified in a timebound manner. He suggested that right regulatory regime with right incentives to investors are important. Dr Mohapatra congratulated his counterparts in HMT, Government of UK, his colleagues in Ministry of Finance, co-chairs of the working group, FICCI and COL on the report launch.

Richard Knox, Director, Financial Services (International), HMT noted that sustainable finance is an important agenda for UK and India as massive amounts of such capital will be required by 2035. He said that he was pleased to see UK-India collaboration on sustainable finance.

Natalie Toms, Chief Economist and Counsellor, British High Commission, Delhi said that it was good to see that the India-UK Sustainable Finance Working Group was recognised during 10th Economic & Financial Dialogue between Governments of India and UK. The report makes important recommendations to accelerate sustainable finance flows in India, she added.

FICCI and City of London are together anchoring the India-UK Sustainable Finance Working Group established after the 9th Economic and Financial Dialogue (EFD) and comprising of senior executives from some of India’s largest lenders (banks and non-banks), investors (asset managers, pension funds) representing the interests of the providers of capital/finance and has amongst its members some of the largest issuers and borrowers to represent the interest of the beneficiaries of such capital and finance. The Joint Statement of the 10th Economic and Financial Dialogue released by Finance Minister of India and Chancellor of the Exchequer of UK on 28 October 2020 had welcomed the India-UK Sustainable Finance Working Group.

The recommendations of the Working Group have been made with reference to sustainable finance taxonomy, mobilising domestic capital for sustainable projects, and facilitating international finance flows to support India’s climate and sustainable development goals. The report can be accessed on http://www.ficci.in/sector-studies.asp?sectorid=14.

Media Brief | Jan 29, 2021

Govt to provide incentives of USD26 bn through PLI scheme to meet SDGs: Amitabh Kant

Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI Aayog on Thursday said that NITI Aayog is committed to ensure the development of policy frameworks for accelerating sustainable finance flows in India to achieve its SDGs.

Addressing the Report Launch Event- India-UK Sustainable Finance Working Group by FICCI and City of London Corporation, Kant said that India needs substantial investments to the tune of USD 260 billion every year to meet its sustainable development goals (SDGs) by 2030. “Govt of India, through the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme will be providing incentives to the tune of USD 26 billion, which also includes sunrise sectors of electric vehicles and solar power. India has been the second fastest growing market in sustainable investments,” he added.

Uday Shankar, President, FICCI said that sustainable finance and climate change imperatives are closely intertwined, each being the trigger for the other.

“As we move towards COP-26, the climate conference of parties in Glasgow later this year to be presided over by the UK, the India-UK Sustainable Finance Working Group can play a catalytic role in bringing clear implementable solutions to enable the policy ecosystem and market creation for sustainable finance in India to meet India’s climate priorities and sustainable development goals,” Shankar added.

Dr Mohapatra congratulated his counterparts in HMT, Government of UK, his colleagues in Ministry of Finance, co-chairs of the working group, FICCI and COL on the report launch.

The Joint Statement of the 10th Economic and Financial Dialogue released by Finance Minister of India and Chancellor of the Exchequer of UK on 28 October 2020 had welcomed the India-UK Sustainable Finance Working Group.

The Hindu Business Line | Jun 30, 2020

Turning the wheels of mobility clean and green

India, as a signatory to the Paris Agreement (UN Framework Convention on Climate Change) and the UN Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), faces many challenges.

To achieve some of its objectives under these, and specially to fulfil its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs under the Paris Agreement), an ‘India Roadmap on Low Carbon and Sustainable Mobility (Decarbonisation of Indian Transport Sector)’, was unveiled last week.

The collective effort of 45 professionals from 36 organisations, the report took some 24 months to complete, with the help of some of the best in the sector, from government, industry, voluntary organisations and logistics specialists. What they came up with is a blueprint which, if taken seriously, could help India reduce significantly the current 18 per cent of CO2 emissions from road transport.

The report envisaged an integrated approach for best results and drew up “actionable recommendations” for the future, breaking them into the short term (up to 2022), medium term (2022 to 2030) and the long term (2030 to 2050).

So, what are the recommendations, the challenges to be overcome? What will it take to achieve such ambitious goals?

In the short term, the report suggests that a national Transport Authority be established with Unified Metropolitan Transport Authorities for metros and a task force that would be a Citizens’ Charter for Urban Mobility.

This will act at a strategic, tactical and operational level, adopting an integrated approach to building modern railway stations, bus ports, air and seaports through a systems approach and encourage transit-oriented development. It also emphasises a change in the permit system and the introduction of ‘one country one permit’ to incentivise inter-State shared public transport. The role of the RTO would also be redefined with automation of licensing and fitness certificates, among others.

In the medium term, the report supports setting up an integrated National Logistics Systems, with an increased use of coastline and inland waterways for passenger and freight movement. It suggests a Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) mode for multimodal logistics solutions. For effective governance, there is emphasis on enforcing congestion charging in large metros, implementing the vehicle scrap policy and setting up scheduled services and app-based services for public transport.

In the long term, the report favours investment in advanced technologies for electric mobility and intelligent transport systems. It envisages that, by then, 100 per cent EV stations will be powered by renewable energy through decentralised mode or through PPAs with developers.

The focus will also be to ensure implementation of all advanced bio fuels as envisaged under the National Policy on Biofuels and work on alternatives for lithium-ion batteries - such as sodium-ion batteries, hydrogen fuel cells and thermal batteries.

The roadmap, which was unveiled recently by Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Transport and Highways, has been brought out by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry and supported by WWF-India, Paris Process on Mobility and Climate (PPMC) and Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation. At the presentation, the minister assured stakeholders that the government will play the role of a facilitator and support the private sector in its initiatives to develop sustainable transportation systems.

The government believes the industry should consider sustainable transportation that comprises low-carbon fuels, electric vehicles, water transportation, conversion of diesel vehicles to LNG and CNG, use of ethanol, methanol and hydrogen fuels for vehicles.

It wants the industry to reach out to concerned State governments and ministries and suggest changes in policies to develop implementable and economically viable projects.

According to Patrick Oliva, Co-Founder, PPMC, the economic viability of projects is an important aspect to develop a low-carbon and sustainable transportation system. The private sector needs to invest in such ventures, with FICCI and the government playing a facilitative role.

8 Distinct Components

To achieve the goals, the report highlights eight distinct components. These include an urban transformation for healthier, inclusive cities; a low-carbon energy supply strategy; optimising supply chains to manage freight transport emissions; discouraging using personal transport for commuting, shopping and accessing services; providing low-carbon solutions for rural populations. And last of all, accelerating action on adaptation in transport sector, with large-scale deployment of economic instruments and leveraging of finance.

When focusing on public transportation, the India Roadmap proposes to shift the paradigm to the movement of people, rather than the movement of vehicles, as the effective means to reduce congestion, air pollution, and vehicle kilometres. This would mean transporting optimal number of people with minimum transport. For this, it suggests an integrated approach of governance and institutions, infrastructure and technology for different modes towards sustainability.

Dilip Chenoy, Secretary General, FICCI, believes “The Roadmap is an opportunity for stakeholders in government, business, urban and transport planning to integrate low-carbon and sustainable options into their strategic decisions.”

As for infrastructure development, the report suggests creation of a national grid of common battery-charging infrastructure, development of bus and multi-modal terminals across the country on the lines of airports, build multi-modal logistics parks around major manufacturing and production centres with seamless rail and road connectivity to nearby ports, inland waterway terminals, and distribution centres.

It urges the government to earmark budgets for sustainable mobility for integrated transport systems and not just for specific projects such as metro, BRT or city bus projects. It suggests that a substantial part of the road project budget be allocated towards developing public transport infrastructure, such as multi-modal terminals, surface ports, bus stations, highway amenity centres and multi-modal logistics parks.

To encourage the private sector, the report argues for extended incentives for manufacture and use of EVs and biofuels. A key suggestion is the establishment of ‘Green Taxonomy’ to facilitate asset-backed securitised deals through diversification of green bonds into the sustainable mobility sector. And dedicated funds to provide viability gap funding and partial risk sharing facility to build a new green economy.

Energy Infra Post | Jun 24, 2020

Government aims to develop indigenous, low carbon transport system: Nitin Gadkari

In his address at the launch of ‘India Roadmap on Low Carbon and Sustainable Mobility (Decarbonisation of Indian Transport Sector)’ report by FICCI, he said that the priority of the government is to develop such a pollution-free and cost-effective transportation system, which also provides comfort to the poor people of the country.

Gadkari also said the government will play the role of a facilitator and support the private sector in its initiatives for developing a sustainable transportation system.

He said that the industry should consider various aspects of sustainable transportation system which comprises of low carbon fuels, electric vehicles, water transportation, conversion of diesel vehicles to LNG and CNG, and use of ethanol, methanol and hydrogen fuels for vehicles.

Subsequently, industry should then reach out to state governments and ministries concerned and suggest changes in the policies for developing implementable and economically viable projects, he said.

Odisha TV | Jun 24, 2020

Centre plans major changes in import policy of power equipment, development of low carbon transport system

In line with the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision, the Centre proposes to make major changes in the import policy for power equipment in a bid to promote domestic manufacturing and reduce import content in large infrastructure projects.

Further, it seems the government will not keep itself limited to the policy action, as it is going a step further and asking the industry participants to shun import dependence.

As part of the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan‘, the Power Ministry has asked all power developers to completely stop imports of items where domestic capabilities are existing.

Moreover, Power Minster R.K. Singh on Tuesday also told the power developers that if import has to take place in case of other equipment, it should be allowed only for a fixed timeframe of 2-3 years during which indigenous manufacturing of these items would be developed by an enabling policy and a set of tax incentives, vendor development programme and other R&D initiatives.

To dissuade imports further, all imported items will need to be tested in Indian laboratories for adhering to Indian standards and also to check the presence of malware that becomes critical for sensitive sectors such as power.

Also, in respect of equipment required to be imported, the import of such equipment from prior reference countries would be done only after obtaining prior approval of the government.

These initiatives were announced by Power and Renewable Energy Minister R.K. Singh during his video conference with developers of generation and transmission projects in the power and renewable energy sector.

The Union Minister further informed the meeting about the ministry’s proposal to impose Basic Custom Duty (BCD) beginning August 2020 on solar modules, solar cells and solar inverters. He said that a clear trajectory of BCD would be declared so that there is no uncertainty about government policy.

Further, the approved list of models and manufacturers in respect of Renewable Energy will be made effective from October 1, 2020, as declared earlier.

This will ensure that all solar power projects which are bid out as per the standard bidding guidelines will be required to procure solar cells and solar modules and other equipment from the manufacturers figuring in the approved list, he added.

Interestingly, Chinese imports play a major role in India’s solar power industry and sector players have off late raised concerns over the immediate halt in imports from the country as India still does not have the required infrastructure to produce the imported products.

Singh on Tuesday also said that financing from Power Finance Corporation (PFC), Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) and Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) will be structured in such a manner that lower rates of interest will be charged on the developers using domestically manufactured equipments.

He also mentioned the recent constitution of an FDI Cell and a Project Development Cell in the Ministries of Power & NRE. The FDI Cell will vet proposals for investment from countries that share borders with India.

The Project Development Cell will hand-hold investible projects so that the process of investment is accelerated. He further informed the meeting that the practice of issuing concessional custom certificates for certain import items in the RE sector will be discontinued from a date that will be specified separately.

Govt aims to develop indigenous, low carbon transport system

In his address at the launch of ‘India Roadmap on Low Carbon and Sustainable Mobility (Decarbonisation of Indian Transport Sector)’ report by Ficci, he said that the priority of the government is to develop such a pollution-free and cost-effective transportation system, which also provides comfort to the poor people of the country.

Gadkari also said the government will play the role of a facilitator and support the private sector in its initiatives for developing a sustainable transportation system.

Subsequently, industry should then reach out to state governments and ministries concerned and suggest changes in the policies for developing implementable and economically viable projects, he said.

Besides, Gadkari said that the industry should look at public-private partnerships and adopt an integrated approach for developing new models of transportation.

He also pointed out the need to decongest metro cities and urged the industry to create industrial clusters and smart cities.

He added that to decrease migration of rural population to urban areas, there is a need to concentrate on the upliftment of agriculture sector, tribal and village population.

PSU Watch | Jun 24, 2020

Indigenous, low-carbon transportation system is govt's priority: Gadkari

Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport & Highways, said that the government’s priority is to develop indigenous, low-carbon, sustainable, economically viable, pollution-free and cost-effective transportation system, which also provides comfort to the poor people of the country. While launching the ‘India Roadmap on Low Carbon and Sustainable Mobility (Decarbonisation of Indian Transport Sector)’ report developed by FICCI and supported by knowledge partners, WWF-India, PPMC (Paris Process on Mobility and Climate), and Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation, Gadkari said that the government will play the role of a facilitator and support the private sector in its initiatives for developing sustainable transportation system.

Developing a sustainable transportation system

Gadkari said that the industry should consider various aspects of sustainable transportation system which comprises low carbon fuels, electric vehicles, water transportation, conversion of diesel vehicles to LNG and CNG, use of ethanol, methanol and hydrogen fuels for vehicles. Industry should then reach out to the concerned state governments and ministries and suggest changes in the policies for developing implementable and economically viable projects.

Gadkari said that the industry should look at public-private partnerships and adopt an integrated approach for developing new models of transportation. There is a need to decongest metro cities and urged the industry to create industrial clusters and smart cities. He added that to decrease migration of rural population to urban areas, there is a need to concentrate on upliftment of agriculture sector, tribal and village population.

A roadmap for India

Sangita Reddy, President, FICCI and Joint Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals Group, said that the roadmap recognizes congestion and air pollution as the heart of the problem to decarbonise, and recommends a greater thrust to public transportation, sustainable fuels, shifting the paradigm of building infrastructure for mobility of vehicles to building infrastructure for mobility of people. She added that this major initiative led by FICCI is culminating today after two years of hard work. Dr Reddy said that FICCI is committed to working with the government for a transition to a low carbon mobility ecosystem.

In his presentation, Bharat Salhotra, Chair, FICCI Core Group on India Roadmap for Low Carbon and Sustainable Mobility, and Managing Director of Ronmas India Private Limited, highlighted the eight distinct components in the roadmap. He added that this FICCI-led initiative focuses on building shared, connected, clean and sustainable mobility roadmap for India.

Dr Patrick Oliva, Co-Founder, Paris Process on Mobility and Climate said that the economic viability of projects is an important aspect for developing low carbon and sustainable transportation system. He added that the private sector needs to invest in building low carbon transportation system and FICCI along with the government can facilitate these projects.

Bhaskar Live | Jun 24, 2020

Govt aims to develop indigenous, low carbon transport system: Gadkari

Gadkari also said the government will play the role of a facilitator and support the private sector in its initiatives for developing a sustainable transportation system.

Subsequently, industry should then reach out to state governments and ministries concerned and suggest changes in the policies for developing implementable and economically viable projects, he said.

Besides, Gadkari said that the industry should look at public private partnerships and adopt an integrated approach for developing new models of transportation.

SME Street | Jun 24, 2020

Govt's priority is to Develop Sustainable & Economically Viable Transport System: Nitin Gadkari

Mr Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport & Highways and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Govt of India today said that priority of the government is to develop indigenous, low carbon, sustainable, economically viable, pollution-free and cost-effective transportation system, which also provides comfort to the poor people of the country.

While launching the ‘India Roadmap on Low Carbon and Sustainable Mobility (Decarbonisation of Indian Transport Sector)’ report developed by FICCI and supported by knowledge partners, WWF-India, PPMC (Paris Process on Mobility and Climate), and Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation, Mr Gadkari said that the government will play the role of a facilitator and support the private sector in its initiatives for developing sustainable transportation system.

Mr Gadkari said that the industry should look at public-private partnerships and adopt an integrated approach for developing new models of transportation. There is a need to decongest metro cities and urged the industry to create industrial clusters and smart cities. He added that to decrease migration of rural population to urban areas, there is a need to concentrate on the upliftment of the agriculture sector, tribal and village population.

Dr Sangita Reddy, President, FICCI and Joint Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals Group said that the roadmap recognizes congestion and air pollution as the heart of the problem to decarbonize, and recommends a greater thrust to public transportation, sustainable fuels, shifting the paradigm of building infrastructure for mobility of vehicles to building infrastructure for mobility of people. She added that this major initiative led by FICCI is culminating today after two years of hard work.

Dr Reddy said that FICCI is committed to working with the government for a transition to a low carbon mobility ecosystem. The launch of the India Roadmap is a new beginning for us to work on its actionable recommendations with the government, in a spirit of partnership and shared vision towards sustainable mobility.

In his presentation, Mr Bharat Salhotra, Chair, FICCI Core Group on India Roadmap for Low Carbon and Sustainable Mobility and Managing Director, Ronmas India Private Limited highlighted the eight distinct components in the roadmap. He added that this FICCI led initiative focuses on building shared, connected, clean and sustainable mobility roadmap for India.

Mr Ravi Singh, Secretary General & CEO, WWF India said that in the current context, there is a need to bring in safeguards for COVID-19 going forward. This should be in addition to the eight distinct components mentioned in the report. He added that India is committed to its NDCs and the Paris Accord.

Ms Vatsala Joseph, Interim CEO, Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation said that the India Roadmap on Low Carbon and Sustainable Mobility is a bottom-up stakeholder-driven actionable vision with an operational focus for the transport sector in the context of SDGs and the objectives of India’s NDCs.

Mr Dilip Chenoy, Secretary General, FICCI said that FICCI will work in tandem with the government for transforming the transportation system in India. He added that FICCI will advocate for change in the transportation system and join the government in its efforts.

Eight distinct components highlighted in the India Roadmap report are as follows:

Urban transformation for healthier, inclusive lifestyles and efficient, resilient, prosperous cities
Low-carbon energy supply strategy
Improve intermodal and mode-wise system efficiencies
Optimise supply chains to manage freight transport emissions
Avoid vehicle kilometres for commuting, shopping and accessing services
Provide low-carbon solutions for the rural (nonurban) populations
Accelerate action on adaptation in the transport sector
Large scale deployment of economic instruments and leveraging finance

Key messages of the roadmap include the following:

Re-Build Governance Structures
Create a paradigm shift from ‘building infrastructure to move vehicles’ to ‘building infrastructure to move people’
Incentivise usage rather than ownership of vehicles & Incentivise use of public transportation in urban and rural areas
Integrate multiple modes of transport for people and goods for seamless mobility
Transit-Oriented Development & Last Mile Connectivity
Incentivise use of sustainable fuels and renewable-based electricity in transport
Integrate climate adaptation aspects into urban and transport planning
Economic instruments to facilitate the transition to low carbon and sustainable mobility transport options
Promote research into new, advanced technologies

Business Standard | Jun 24, 2020

Toll collection on recovery path as Gadkari looks at higher share of PPP

A silver lining has emerged amid the pandemic as toll collection across many highways has seen a quick revival, with traffic on some stretches at 90 per cent of pre-lockdown levels.

“Traffic has returned for a number of stretches. It is now 90 per cent or more of pre-Covid levels,” said a top executive of a fund which owns a road asset portfolio.

As overall toll collection has gone up, the government is now banking on an improvement in the sector through private participation. Union highways minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday said as many as 80 per cent of the projects can be done on PPP (public-private-partnership) mode. Currently, half of the national highway projects awarded by Gadkari’s ministry are on PPP basis.

IRB Infrastructure Developers has seen toll collection numbers return to around 70 to 75 per cent of pre-Covid level. “This is a surprising recovery, because a lot of things still continue to be under lockdown and inter-district and intra district are still not very speedy,” said Virendra Mhaiskar, chairman and managing director for the company.

Reliance Infrastructure, in its annual general meeting statement on Tuesday, also said the company’s road toll collection is already at 75 per cent of the pre-Covid levels and will be back to normal in the next few weeks. Company executives added that most of the recovery is led by commercial vehicular movement.

In May, traffic on some of these highway stretches was limping back at 30 per cent to 50 per cent of the usual traffic seen before the Covid-19 hit.

Gadkari said the industry should look at PPP and adopt an integrated approach for developing new models of transportation.

Gadkari added, “There is a need to decongest metro cities and create industrial clusters as well as smart cities. To decrease migration of the rural population to urban areas, there is a need to uplift the agriculture sector, tribal and village population.”

The other reason for relying more on private participation, he pointed out, is the current financial situation of the government. The minister said that neither state governments nor the central government can afford to pump in huge money at this point.

He added the government will play the role of a facilitator and support the private sector in its initiatives for developing sustainable transportation system.

The industry should consider various aspects of a sustainable transportation system, which comprises low-carbon fuels, electric vehicles and water transportation. There should be conversion of diesel vehicles to LNG and CNG as well as use of ethanol, methanol and hydrogen fuels for vehicles.

The industry should then reach out to the concerned state governments and ministries and suggest changes in policies for developing economically viable projects, the minister said at a FICCI webinar.

Business Standard | Jun 24, 2020

Government will facilitate and support private sector for Developing Sustainable Transportation System: Nitin Gadkari

Mr Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport & Highways and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises, Govt of India said that priority of the government is to develop indigenous, low carbon, sustainable, economically viable, pollution-free and cost-effective transportation system, which also provides comfort to the poor people of the country. While launching the 'India Roadmap on Low Carbon and Sustainable Mobility (Decarbonisation of Indian Transport Sector)' report developed by FICCI and supported by knowledge partners, WWF-India, PPMC (Paris Process on Mobility and Climate), and Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation, Mr Gadkari said that the government will play the role of a facilitator and support the private sector in its initiatives for developing sustainable transportation system.

Mr Gadkari said that the industry should consider various aspects of sustainable transportation system which comprises low carbon fuels, electric vehicles, water transportation, conversion of diesel vehicles to LNG and CNG, use of ethanol, methanol and hydrogen fuels for vehicles. Industry should then reach out to concerned state governments and ministries and suggest changes in the policies for developing implementable and economically viable projects. Mr Gadkari said that the industry should look at public private partnerships and adopt an integrated approach for developing new models of transportation. There is a need to decongest metro cities and urged the industry to create industrial clusters and smart cities. He added that to decrease migration of rural population to urban areas, there is a need to concentrate on upliftment of agriculture sector, tribal and village population.

Hindustan Times | Jun 24, 2020

Government aims to develop indigenous, low carbon transport system: Nitin Gadkar

In his address at the launch of 'India Roadmap on Low Carbon and Sustainable Mobility (Decarbonisation of Indian Transport Sector) report by FICCI, he said that the priority of the government is to develop such a pollution-free and cost-effective transportation system, which also provides comfort to the poor people of the country.

Gadkari also said the government will play the role of a facilitator and support the private sector in its initiatives for developing a sustainable transportation system.

Subsequently, industry should then reach out to state governments and ministries concerned and suggest changes in the policies for developing implementable and economically viable projects, he said.

Besides, Gadkari said that the industry should look at public private partnerships and adopt an integrated approach for developing new models of transportation.

He also pointed out the need to decongest metro cities and urged industry to create industrial clusters and smart cities.

He added that to decrease migration of rural population to urban areas, there is a need to concentrate on upliftment of agriculture sector, tribal and village population.

Orissa Diary | Jun 23, 2020

Govt's priority is to develop indigenous, sustainable & economically viable transportation system: Nitin Gadkari

Mr Gadkari said that the industry should look at public private partnerships and adopt an integrated approach for developing new models of transportation. There is a need to decongest metro cities and urged the industry to create industrial clusters and smart cities. He added that to decrease migration of rural population to urban areas, there is a need to concentrate on upliftment of agriculture sector, tribal and village population.

Dr Reddy said that FICCI is committed to work with the government for a transition to a low carbon mobility ecosystem. The launch of the India Roadmap is a new beginning for us to work on its actionable recommendations with the government, in a spirit of partnership and shared vision towards sustainable mobility.

Dr Patrick Oliva, Co-Founder, Paris Process on Mobility and Climate said that economic viability of projects is an important aspect for developing low carbon and sustainable transportation system. He added that private sector needs to invest in building low carbon transportation system and FICCI along with the government can facilitate these projects.

Ms Vatsala Joseph, Interim CEO, Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation said that the India Roadmap on Low Carbon and Sustainable Mobility is a bottom-up stakeholder driven actionable vision with an operational focus for the transport sector in the context of SDGs and the objectives of India’s NDCs.

newsd | Jun 23, 2020

Govt aims to develop indigenous, low carbon transport system: Gadkari

Gadkari also said the government will play the role of a facilitator and support the private sector in its initiatives for developing a sustainable transportation system.

Subsequently, industry should then reach out to state governments and ministries concerned and suggest changes in the policies for developing implementable and economically viable projects, he said.

Besides, Gadkari said that the industry should look at public private partnerships and adopt an integrated approach for developing new models of transportation.

He also pointed out the need to decongest metro cities and urged industry to create industrial clusters and smart cities.

He added that to decrease migration of rural population to urban areas, there is a need to concentrate on upliftment of agriculture sector, tribal and village population.

Nyoooz | Jun 23, 2020

Govt s priority is to develop indigenous sustainable economically viable transportation system Nitin Gadkari

Dr Reddy said that FICCI is committed to work with the government for a transition to a low carbon mobility ecosystem. He added that this FICCI led initiative focuses on building shared, connected, clean and sustainable mobility roadmap for India. He added that private sector needs to invest in building low carbon transportation system and FICCI along with the government can facilitate these projects. Mr Dilip Chenoy, Secretary General, FICCI said that FICCI will work in tandem with the government for transforming the transportation system in India. He added that FICCI will advocate for change in the transportation system and join the government in its efforts.

Market Research Vista | Jun 23, 2020

Integrated method to transport, agri-diversification required to enhance economic condition: Nitin Gadkari

Integrated method to transport unit, variation of horticulture in to electricity and also energy, and also growth of commercial sets outside city areas are actually the demand of the hr to enhance the Indian economic condition, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday claimed. The street transportation, freeways and also MSME priest likewise prompted sector to consider public-private collaboration (PPP) for different ventures, be it transport-related or even horticulture, for maintainable growth of remote country and also tribe regions.

Addressing a webinar on ‘India Roadmap on Low Carbon and also Sustainable Mobility’ performed through sector physical body FICCI, Gadkari claimed, "Our company require to consider an incorporated method in the direction of transport unit. Our company require to sustain all sort of transport whether street, water, rail or even sky for establishing a native, financially sensible and also maintainable transport unit."

He claimed that in the course of the existing coronavirus-induced recession, there is actually a demand for ventures on PPP to enhance the economic condition and also prompted sector gamers ahead ahead here, be it a bus slot or even godowns or even commercial locations.

At the very same opportunity, he claimed that provided the overpopulation of urban centers, it is actually opportunity to concentrate on growth of tribe and also country regions and also establishing or even switching up commercial sets certainly there to create job and also decongest areas like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru and also Pune.

"COVID-19 has actually presented recession and also difficulties … Our company require to turn this in to chance … Our company require to consider an incorporated method for upliftment of country and also metropolitan populace consisting of 115 aspirant areas," the official claimed.

He claimed the top priority of the federal government is actually to establish native, low-carbon, maintainable, financially sensible, affordable and also pollution-free transport unit, which likewise gives convenience to the inadequate individuals of the nation.

He claimed the federal government will definitely participate in the duty of a company and also sustain the economic sector in its own campaigns for establishing maintainable transport unit.

Industry ought to take into consideration different facets of maintainable transport unit which makes up low-carbon energies, electrical cars, water transport, transformation of diesel cars to LNG and also CNG, use methanol, hydrogen and also ethanol energies for cars. He included that sector ought to at that point connect to interested condition authorities and also departments and also advise improvements in the plans for establishing financially sensible and also implementable ventures.

The official claimed sector ought to consider public-private collaborations and also embrace an incorporated method for establishing brand new versions of transport.

"There is actually a demand to decongest city areas and also … to generate intelligent areas and also commercial sets," he claimed including that while the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is actually obtaining property along freeways, there suffices range of putting together commercial sets.

Giving instance of Delhi, the priest claimed, "For its own decongestion, our company ought to certainly not make it possible for any sort of kind of godowns, especially in urban area regions, whether for components, food items, grocery store or even various other points and also consider constructing these outdoors."

Also, the priest pressured the demand to transform horticulture in to energy and also electricity and also included that the ethanol economic condition possesses prospective to reach out to Rs 1 lakh crore.

Ethanol may simply be actually produced coming from rice, wheat or grain, sweets and also various other foodgrains and also it corrects opportunity for variation provided the excess development, he claimed.

He prompted vehicle makers ahead out along with flex-engine cars on the style of established countries as well as likewise concentrate on CNG and also LNG cars.

At the very same opportunity, he claimed telecommunication structure like high rises ought to be actually changed to CNG and also LNG coming from diesel-powered to examine contamination.

"There is actually a demand to ensure electrical cars likewise," he claimed.

The priest likewise released a document, entitled ‘India Roadmap on Low Carbon and also Sustainable Mobility (Decarbonisation of Indian Transport Sector)’, created through FICCI and also assisted through know-how companions, WWF-India, PPMC (Paris Process on Mobility and also Climate), and also Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation.

Daiji World | Jun 23, 2020

Govt aims to develop indigenous, low carbon transport system: Gadkari

In his address at the launch of 'India Roadmap on Low Carbon and Sustainable Mobility (Decarbonisation of Indian Transport Sector)' report by FICCI, he said that the priority of the government is to develop such a pollution-free and cost-effective transportation system, which also provides comfort to the poor people of the country.

Gadkari also said the government will play the role of a facilitator and support the private sector in its initiatives for developing a sustainable transportation system.

Subsequently, industry should then reach out to state governments and ministries concerned and suggest changes in the policies for developing implementable and economically viable projects, he said.

Besides, Gadkari said that the industry should look at public private partnerships and adopt an integrated approach for developing new models of transportation.

He also pointed out the need to decongest metro cities and urged industry to create industrial clusters and smart cities.

He added that to decrease migration of rural population to urban areas, there is a need to concentrate on upliftment of agriculture sector, tribal and village population.

Ludhiana Live News | Jun 23, 2020

Integrated approach to transportation, agri-diversification needed to boost economy: Nitin Gadkari

Integrated approach to transportation system, diversification of agriculture into energy and power, and development of industrial clusters outside metro cities are the need of the hour to boost the Indian economy, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday said. The road transport, highways and MSME minister also urged industry to look at public-private partnership (PPP) for various projects, be it transport-related or agriculture, for sustainable development of far-flung rural and tribal areas.

Addressing a webinar on ‘India Roadmap on Low Carbon and Sustainable Mobility’ conducted by industry body FICCI, Gadkari said, “We need to think about an integrated approach towards transportation system. We need to support all kinds of transportation whether road, water, rail or air for developing an indigenous, sustainable and economically viable transportation system.”

He said that during the current coronavirus-induced economic crisis, there is a need for projects on PPP to boost the economy and urged industry players to come forward in this direction, be it a bus port or godowns or industrial facilities.

At the same time, he said that given the overpopulation of metropolises, it is time to focus on development of rural and tribal areas and shifting or setting up industrial clusters there to generate employment and decongest cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru and Pune.

“COVID-19 has posed economic crisis and challenges… We need to convert this into opportunity… We need to think about an integrated approach for upliftment of urban and rural population including 115 aspirant districts,” the minister said.

He said the priority of the government is to develop indigenous, low-carbon, sustainable, economically viable, pollution-free and cost-effective transportation system, which also provides comfort to the poor people of the country.

He said the government will play the role of a facilitator and support the private sector in its initiatives for developing sustainable transportation system.

Industry should consider various aspects of sustainable transportation system which comprises low-carbon fuels, electric vehicles, water transportation, conversion of diesel vehicles to LNG and CNG, use of ethanol, methanol and hydrogen fuels for vehicles. He added that industry should then reach out to concerned state governments and ministries and suggest changes in the policies for developing implementable and economically viable projects.

The minister said industry should look at public-private partnerships and adopt an integrated approach for developing new models of transportation.

“There is a need to decongest metro cities and…to create industrial clusters and smart cities,” he said adding that while the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is acquiring land along highways, there is enough scope of setting up industrial clusters.

Giving example of Delhi, the minister said, “For its decongestion, we should not allow any type of godowns, particularly in city areas, whether for hardware, food, grocery or other things and look at building these outside.”

Also, the minister stressed the need to diversify agriculture into power and energy and added that the ethanol economy has potential to reach Rs 1 lakh crore.

Ethanol can easily be made from rice, wheat, sugar and other foodgrains and it is right time for diversification given the surplus production, he said.

He urged automobile manufacturers to come out with flex-engine vehicles on the pattern of developed nations and also focus on CNG and LNG vehicles.

At the same time, he said telecommunication infrastructure like towers should be shifted to CNG and LNG from diesel to check pollution.

“There is a need to promote electric vehicles also,” he said.

The minister also launched a report, titled ‘India Roadmap on Low Carbon and Sustainable Mobility (Decarbonisation of Indian Transport Sector)’, developed by FICCI and supported by knowledge partners, WWF-India, PPMC (Paris Process on Mobility and Climate), and Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation.

The Economic Times | Jun 23, 2020

Integrated approach to transportation, agri-diversification needed to boost economy: Nitin Gadkari

Addressing a webinar on 'India Roadmap on Low Carbon and Sustainable Mobility' conducted by industry body FICCI, Gadkari said, "We need to think about an integrated approach towards transportation system. We need to support all kinds of transportation whether road, water, rail or air for developing an indigenous, sustainable and economically viable transportation system."

"COVID-19 has posed economic crisis and challenges... We need to convert this into opportunity... We need to think about an integrated approach for upliftment of urban and rural population including 115 aspirant districts," the minister said.

He said the government will play the role of a facilitator and support the private sector in its initiatives for developing sustainable transportation system.

The minister said industry should look at public-private partnerships and adopt an integrated approach for developing new models of transportation.

"There is a need to decongest metro cities and...to create industrial clusters and smart cities," he said adding that while the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is acquiring land along highways, there is enough scope of setting up industrial clusters.

Giving example of Delhi, the minister said, "For its decongestion, we should not allow any type of godowns, particularly in city areas, whether for hardware, food, grocery or other things and look at building these outside."

Also, the minister stressed the need to diversify agriculture into power and energy and added that the ethanol economy has potential to reach Rs 1 lakh crore.

Ethanol can easily be made from rice, wheat, sugar and other foodgrains and it is right time for diversification given the surplus production, he said.

He urged automobile manufacturers to come out with flex-engine vehicles on the pattern of developed nations and also focus on CNG and LNG vehicles.

At the same time, he said telecommunication infrastructure like towers should be shifted to CNG and LNG from diesel to check pollution.

"There is a need to promote electric vehicles also," he said.

The minister also launched a report, titled 'India Roadmap on Low Carbon and Sustainable Mobility (Decarbonisation of Indian Transport Sector)', developed by FICCI and supported by knowledge partners, WWF-India, PPMC (Paris Process on Mobility and Climate), and Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation.

India.com | Jun 23, 2020

Centre aims to develop indigenous, Low Carbon Transport System: Gadkari

Union Road Transport & Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari on Tuesday said that the Central government has prioritised the development of indigenous, low carbon, sustainable and economically viable transportation system. Also Read - World Not Interested in China, Says Gadkari as Centre Plans to Reduce Import Dependence on Beijing

Gadkari also said the government will play the role of a facilitator and support the private sector in its initiatives for developing a sustainable transportation system. Also Read - India Not Interested in Land of China, Pakistan, But Wants Peace: Nitin Gadkari at 'Gujarat Jan Samvad' Rally

Subsequently, industry should then reach out to state governments and ministries concerned and suggest changes in the policies for developing implementable and economically viable projects, he said.

Besides, Gadkari said that the industry should look at public private partnerships and adopt an integrated approach for developing new models of transportation.

Financial Express | Feb 16, 2020

Wow! Delhi-Mumbai Expressway to have an electric lane; Nitin Gadkari invites private players to invest

Delhi-Mumbai Expressway latest update: Delhi-Mumbai Expressway which is slated to be completed in the next three years, will have a lane for electric vehicles! For this, Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has urged private players to invest alongside the government in developing the proposed electric lane on the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway. According to him, serious players willing to invest in the Rs 1.03 lakh crore Delhi-Mumbai Expressway will get support from the government in terms of policies.

The Delhi-Mumbai Expressway will cut down the travel time between the two cities to just 12-13 hours. Nitin Gadkari, while speaking at ‘Developing a Roadmap for Low Carbon & Sustainable Mobility in India’ conference by FICCI, also mentioned that the Delhi-Jaipur stretch of the over 1,200 kilometres long expressway is slated to be finished by Diwali this year.

The government has also appealed to the private players to come forward in terms of bio-CNG along with the electric vehicles. Investments in bio-fuel are expected to cut down the crude import cost by Rs 7 lakh crore, Gadkari asserted. On his visit to Sweden, Nitin Gadkari has assured that he will look into modern transport infrastructure and the issue of electric highways. He further stressed that Indian players are now inclining towards electric vehicles and many start-ups are coming up with new EV technologies. With this, the minister is of view that India will soon export electric vehicles and has the ability to become one of the key players in EV space.

On the Delhi Mumbai Expressway front, the minister laid down a timeline of three years and acknowledged that the land acquisition has been completed for the project and helped save Rs 16,000 crore due to new alignment. According to him, the government had acquired the land at the cost of Rs 80 lakh per hectare. With the Delhi-Mumbai expressway route map, many districts of Haryana, Gujarat, Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh will have new economic opportunities unlocked for them. Moreover, the government has begun the work for six other express highways out of 22 projects proposed, said Gadkari.

Orissadiary.com | Feb 15, 2020

Industry to focus on economically viable technologies, alternate fuel solutions to support public transportation - Nitin Gadkari

Mr Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport & Highways and MSME, Govt of India, today urged the industry to use waterways as a mode of transportation for goods to reduce cost and become competitive in the export market.

Speaking at a conference on ‘Developing A Roadmap for Low Carbon & Sustainable Mobility in India’, organised by FICCI Mr Gadkari said, “This is the appropriate time. We have the best technology; economic viability and we need public private investments. To support these, we have government policies.”

Mr Gadkari said that government has already started the process of introducing Broad gauge metro in railways using the already existing railway network. He also invited the private sector to explore and invest in this sector. “This model can be given to private sector to run these metros,” he said.

Highlighting the potential in the transport sector, Mr Gadkari urged the industry to use waterways transportation as a mode for transporting goods. “The most economically viable transport is water transport and public transport on electricity,” he added.

Mr Gadkari said that the Delhi Mumbai express highway, part of the 22 green highway project, will be completed in next 3 years and will reduce travel distance by 280 kms. “In long term, LNG should be used in trucks which will reduce the cost by 40 percent as compared to diesel and CNG for city buses,” he added.

Mr Gadkari invited the private sector to come forward to invest in conversion of CNG from stubble and solid waste. He added that government is also working on adopting bio-aviation fuel as fuel option which will be cheaper than petroleum aviation fuel.

He urged FICCI to develop a policy for next 25 years focusing on cost-effective, pollution free, best technology options, ecology and environment.

Highlighting the potential of e-vehicles in India, Mr Gadkari said that government is planning to introduce 10,000 electric buses and government will support the e-vehicle sector. “By using the world's best technology, we can see a reduction of 10 percent in the logistics cost and will also help in reducing pollution, creation of new jobs and overall development of the economy,” added Mr Gadkari.

He emphasised on different options such as conversion of waste and sewage into biofuels, utilisation of wasteland for Jatropha, promotion hydrogen fuel cells, alternative fuels in rural sector to contribute towards livelihood generation and waterways as a long-term solution.

Mr Bharat Salhotra, Chair, FICCI Core Group on Sustainable Mobility and MD, Ronmas India Private Limited said, “Today, we are entering into a new phase to have consultations with government on the India Roadmap for low carbon and sustainable mobility. FICCI has conducted multi-stakeholder consultations for the Roadmap in three Indian cities as well as in International conferences to develop a comprehensive one single roadmap for the country in the transport space.”

Mr Ravi Singh, Secretary General & CEO, WWF India also shared his perspective on the future transport sector of the country.

This FICCI led initiative is supported by PPMC (Paris Process on Mobility and Climate), WWF-India and Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation as knowledge partners. The specific objectives of this Roadmap are:

To provide a long-term vision and action plan to the government for decarbonisation of the transport sector

To provide an integrated thinking, design and planning perspective on low carbon and sustainable mobility ecosystem in India for the near-term (2022), mid-term (2030) and long-term (2050)

Saur Energy | Feb 15, 2020

Gadkari inaugurates first inter-city Electric Bus Service in Maharashtra

Union Minister for Transport, Highways, and MSMEs, Nitin Gadkari on Friday inaugurated the first inter-city electric bus service, between Mumbai and Pune in Maharashtra. The 43-seater capacity luxury electric bus, manufactured by Mitra Mobility Solution, has a range of 300 kilometres on a single charge and would be operated twice daily between the two cities, the operator Prasanna Purple Mobility Solutions said.

The company, which claims to already have around 1,300 electric buses in operation, is also looking to extend these services in other parts of Maharashtra and adjoining states, it’s Chairman and Managing Director Prasanna Patwardhan told reporters.

“This new move in the electric vehicle space gives us yet another opportunity to serve our customers. We also plan to extend this service to other routes within Maharashtra and adjacent states,” Patwardhan said.

Speaking at the event Gadkari said his efforts in the last 4-5 years have been to see that electric buses run in large numbers on the country’s highways. He also said various corporations, state government corporations and private operators might order some 10,000 electric buses this year.

“We are also planning to build e-(electric) highways,” he said.

Recently, we had reported that the minister had urged industry players to join hands with the government for the proposed electric lane on Rs 1.03 lakh crore Delhi-Mumbai Expressway while promising to provide policy support to serious players.

“Indian investors should come forward for investing in electric lane stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai expressway to be built at a cost of Rs 1.03 lakh crore within three years,” the Minister had said while addressing a conference on ‘Developing a Roadmap for Low Carbon & Sustainable Mobility in India’ by FICCI.

The minister had also said that the government is ready to provide policy support to serious investors and also appealed them to come forward in the field of alternative fuel including bio-CNG and electric vehicles. This could cut India’s huge Rs 7 lakh crore crude imports, he said. Stressing on modern transport infrastructure, he said he will also take up the issue of electric highways during his ensuing visit to Sweden this month.

ET Energy World | Feb 14, 2020

Nitin Gadkari invites players for electric lane of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway

He said while a stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway is planned as electric lane, the Delhi-Jaipur part of the 1,320 km expressway will be completed before Diwali.

This could cut India's huge Rs 7 lakh crore crude imports, he said.

Stressing on modern transport infrastructure, he said he will also take up the issue of electric highways during his ensuing visit to Sweden this month.

The minister also said that electric vehicles have become popular among Indian companies and start-ups, and days were not far-off when India will be a key player in export of electric vehicles.

He also said that water transport was one of the viable mobility solutions and added that metros could be successful in tier 2 and 3 cities.

Besides Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, work has been initiated on six other express highways out of proposed 22 projects, he said.

The entire Delhi Mumbai Express Highway will be completed in the next three years, the minister said, adding that land acquisition for the project has been completed and resulted in savings to the tune of Rs 16,000 crore on it being on a new alignment.

"We have saved about Rs 16,000 crore on land acquisition front alone as land could be acquired at a cost of Rs 80 lakh per hectare for the project," he said, adding that the expressway will unlock new economic opportunities in hinterland districts of Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat.

Saur Energy | Feb 14, 2020

Gadkari urges players for Electric Lane of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway

Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has urged industry players to join hands with the government for the proposed electric lane on Rs 1.03 lakh crore Delhi-Mumbai Expressway while promising to provide policy support to serious players.

He said while a stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway is planned as electric lane, the Delhi-Jaipur part of the 1,320 km expressway will be completed before Diwali.

“Indian investors should come forward for investing in electric lane stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai expressway to be built at a cost of Rs 1.03 lakh crore within three years,” the Minister said while addressing a conference on ‘Developing a Roadmap for Low Carbon & Sustainable Mobility in India’ by FICCI here.

The minister said the government is ready to provide policy support to serious investors and also appealed them to come forward in the field of alternative fuel including bio-CNG and electric vehicles. This could cut India’s huge Rs 7 lakh crore crude imports, he said. Stressing on modern transport infrastructure, he said he will also take up the issue of electric highways during his ensuing visit to Sweden this month.

The minister also said that electric vehicles have become popular among Indian companies and start-ups, and days are not far-off when India will be a key player in the export of electric vehicles. He also said that water transport was one of the viable mobility solutions and added that metros could be successful in tier 2 and 3 cities.

“We have saved about Rs 16,000 crore on land acquisition front alone as land could be acquired at a cost of Rs 80 lakh per hectare for the project,” he said, adding that the expressway will unlock new economic opportunities in hinterland districts of Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Gujarat.

CNBC TV18 | Feb 14, 2020

Sustainable mobility: Nitin Gadkari promises full govt support to serious investors

The future is bright for investors, who are putting their money in sustainable mobility solutions, said Nitin Gadkari, Union minister for road transport and highways. Speaking at an event, Gadkari said that the government is ready to provide policy support to "serious investors" because private funds are needed for implementing large projects.

"I urge industry bodies to find private investors who are serious about investing in sustainable infrastructure projects. I assure you that the government will provide policy support to the investors. These investors should come to me and I will be upfront about those suggestions which can be incorporated and those which cannot be..but we need to have larger participation of private entities," Gadkari said.

He added that projects like electric mobility, electric expressway have immense potential and those investors who will invest in sustainable mobility solutions will have a "bright future".

No deadline for EV transition

Gadkari also reiterated that there is no need for the government to set a deadline for transition to electric mobility as once these vehicles enter the market, it will automatically present a more economic case for the customer.

"I launched electric two-wheelers recently. 10,000 electric buses will come this year. Electric vehicles have become popular among Indian vehicle manufacturing companies and startups. Startups are doing research in this field."

"An electric vehicle which will run for Rs 1,000 and have no maintenance cost will be more economical than a petrol vehicle which will mean expenses to the tune of Rs 5,000-6,000 per month," Gadkari added.

More options

Gadkari, who was also the Union shipping minister in the first term of the Modi government, said that public transport on electricity and water transport are the two most viable mobility solutions.

"Departments should not work in silos. There should be synergy and coordination. I see a great case of better mutual support between railways and metro. Broad gauge rail network can be used for metro services as well. I have spearheaded the efforts to implement it in Nagpur," Gadkari said.

He also said that metro model is successful only in some tier-1 cities and not in tier-2 and 3 cities as the charges are not as per the buying capacity of Indians.

"Metros in Tier-2,3 cities not that successful as charge is higher..buying capacity of Indians should be kept in mind while setting service charge," Gadkari said.

Nagpur Today | Feb 14, 2020

Sustainable mobility: Nitin Gadkari promises full govt support to serious investors

The future is bright for investors, who are putting their money in sustainable mobility solutions, said Nitin Gadkari, Union minister for road transport and highways. Speaking at an event, Gadkari said that the government is ready to provide policy support to “serious investors” because private funds are needed for implementing large projects.

“I urge industry bodies to find private investors who are serious about investing in sustainable infrastructure projects. I assure you that the government will provide policy support to the investors. These investors should come to me and I will be upfront about those suggestions which can be incorporated and those which cannot be..but we need to have larger participation of private entities,” Gadkari said.

He added that projects like electric mobility, electric expressway have immense potential and those investors who will invest in sustainable mobility solutions will have a “bright future”.

No deadline for EV transition

“I launched electric two-wheelers recently. 10,000 electric buses will come this year. Electric vehicles have become popular among Indian vehicle manufacturing companies and startups. Startups are doing research in this field.”

“An electric vehicle which will run for Rs 1,000 and have no maintenance cost will be more economical than a petrol vehicle which will mean expenses to the tune of Rs 5,000-6,000 per month,” Gadkari added.

More options

Gadkari, who was also the Union shipping minister in the first term of the Modi government, said that public transport on electricity and water transport are the two most viable mobility solutions.

“Departments should not work in silos. There should be synergy and coordination. I see a great case of better mutual support between railways and metro. Broad gauge rail network can be used for metro services as well. I have spearheaded the efforts to implement it in Nagpur,” Gadkari said.

He also said that metro model is successful only in some tier-1 cities and not in tier-2 and 3 cities as the charges are not as per the buying capacity of Indians.

“Metros in Tier-2,3 cities not that successful as charge is higher..buying capacity of Indians should be kept in mind while setting service charge,” Gadkari said.

Bloggwrite | Feb 14, 2020

Gadkari calls on industry to come forward for electric lane of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari requested the industry to join hands with the government over the proposed electric lane on the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway. He has also assured policy help to serious partners on this issue. Gadkari said that the Delhi-Jaipur section of this expressway, being constructed at a cost of Rs 1.03 lakh crore, will be ready before Diwali.

He said at the conference organized by FICCI, "Development of Low Carbon and Healthy Traffic in India", to invest in electric lanes of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway being built at a cost of Rs 1.03 lakh crore within three years. Investors should come forward.

He said that the government is ready to give policy support to serious partners. He called upon the industry to come forward in the field of alternative fuels and electric vehicles, including bio, CNG. Emphasizing the modern infrastructure of transport, Gadkari said that he would raise the issue of electric highway during his visit to Sweden this month.

He said that electric vehicles are becoming popular among Indian companies and startups. The days are not far when India will become the leader in exporting electric vehicles. He said that waterways can be another good mode of transportation. Metro can be successful in tier-two and tier-three cities. Gadkari said that out of the 22 projects proposed, work on six other expressways including Delhi-Mumbai Expressway has started.

Energy Infra Post | Feb 14, 2020

Nitin Gadkari invites players for electric lane of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway

He said while a stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway is planned as electric lane, the Delhi-Jaipur part of the 1,320 km expressway will be completed before Diwali.

“Indian investors should come forward for investing in electric lane stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai expressway to be built at a cost of Rs 1.03 lakh crore within three years,” the Road Transport and Highways Minister said while addressing a conference on ‘Developing a Roadmap for Low Carbon & Sustainable Mobility in India’ by FICCI here.

This could cut India’s huge Rs 7 lakh crore crude imports, he said.

Stressing on modern transport infrastructure, he said he will also take up the issue of electric highways during his ensuing visit to Sweden this month.

The minister also said that electric vehicles have become popular among Indian companies and start-ups, and days were not far-off when India will be a key player in export of electric vehicles.

He also said that water transport was one of the viable mobility solutions and added that metros could be successful in tier 2 and 3 cities.

Besides Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, work has been initiated on six other express highways out of proposed 22 projects, he said.

Bloggwrite | Feb 14, 2020

Gadkari calls on industry to come forward for electric lane of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway

SME Street | Feb 14, 2020

Economically viable technologies, alternate fuel solutions to support public transportation: Nitin Gadkari

He urged FICCI to develop a policy for next 25 years focusing on cost-effective, pollution free, best technology options, ecology and environment.

Highlighting the potential of e-vehicles in India, Mr Gadkari said that government is planning to introduce 10,000 electric buses and government will support the e-vehicle sector. “By using the world’s best technology, we can see a reduction of 10 percent in the logistics cost and will also help in reducing pollution, creation of new jobs and overall development of the economy,” added Mr Gadkari.

Mr Ravi Singh, Secretary General & CEO, WWF India also shared his perspective on the future transport sector of the country.

To provide a long-term vision and action plan to the government for decarbonisation of the transport sector
To provide an integrated thinking, design and planning perspective on low carbon and sustainable mobility ecosystem in India for the near-term (2022), mid-term (2030) and long-term (2050)

Business Insider | Feb 13, 2020

Gadkari invites players for electric lane of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway

He said while a stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway is planned as electric lane, the Delhi-Jaipur part of the 1,320 km expressway will be completed before Diwali.

The could cut on India's huge Rs 7 lakh crore crude imports, he said.

Stressing on modern transport infrastructure, he said he will also take up the issue of electric highways during his ensuing visit to Sweden this month.

The minister also said that electric vehicles have become popular among Indian companies and start-ups, and days were not far-off when India will be a key player in export of electric vehicles.

He also said that water transport was one of the viable mobility solutions and added that metros could be successful in tier 2 and 3 cities.

Besides Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, work has been initiated on six other express highways out of proposed 22 projects, he said.

Research Newspaper | Feb 13, 2020

Nitin Gadkari invitations gamers for electrical lane of Delhi-Mumbai Limited-access highway

Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday suggested trade gamers to sign up for fingers with the federal government for the proposed electrical lane on Rs 1.03 lakh crore Delhi-Mumbai Limited-access highway whilst promising to offer coverage give a boost to to severe gamers. He stated whilst a stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai Limited-access highway is deliberate as electrical lane, the Delhi-Jaipur a part of the 1,320 km freeway might be finished sooner than Diwali.

“Indian buyers will have to come ahead for making an investment in electrical lane stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai freeway to be constructed at a value of Rs 1.03 lakh crore inside of 3 years,” the Street Shipping and Highways Minister stated whilst addressing a convention on ‘Creating a Roadmap for Low Carbon & Sustainable Mobility in India’ by means of FICCI right here.

The minister stated the federal government is able to supply coverage give a boost to to severe buyers and in addition appealed them to come back ahead within the box of different gasoline together with bio-CNG and electrical automobile.

The may just minimize on India’s large Rs 7 lakh crore crude imports, he stated.

Stressing on trendy delivery infrastructure, he stated he’s going to additionally take in the problem of electrical highways all the way through his resulting seek advice from to Sweden this month.

The minister additionally stated that electrical cars have turn out to be fashionable amongst Indian corporations and start-ups, and days weren’t distant when India might be a key participant in export of electrical cars.

He additionally stated that water delivery was once probably the most viable mobility answers and added that metros may well be a hit in tier 2 and three towns.

But even so Delhi-Mumbai Limited-access highway, paintings has been initiated on six different categorical highways out of proposed 22 tasks, he stated.

All the Delhi Mumbai Categorical Freeway might be finished within the subsequent 3 years, the minister stated, including that land acquisition for the challenge has been finished and ended in financial savings to the music of Rs 16,000 crore on it being on a brand new alignment.

“We have now stored about Rs 16,000 crore on land acquisition entrance by myself as land may well be bought at a value of Rs 80 lakh consistent with hectare for the challenge,” he stated, including that the freeway will release new financial alternatives in hinterland districts of Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat.

The Economic Times | Feb 13, 2020

Nitin Gadkari invites players for electric lane of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway

He said while a stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway is planned as electric lane, the Delhi-Jaipur part of the 1,320 km expressway will be completed before Diwali.

This could cut India's huge Rs 7 lakh crore crude imports, he said.

Stressing on modern transport infrastructure, he said he will also take up the issue of electric highways during his ensuing visit to Sweden this month.

The minister also said that electric vehicles have become popular among Indian companies and start-ups, and days were not far-off when India will be a key player in export of electric vehicles.

He also said that water transport was one of the viable mobility solutions and added that metros could be successful in tier 2 and 3 cities.

Besides Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, work has been initiated on six other express highways out of proposed 22 projects, he said.

ET Auto | Feb 13, 2020

Gadkari invites players for electric lane of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway

He said while a stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway is planned as electric lane, the Delhi-Jaipur part of the 1,320 km expressway will be completed before Diwali.

The could cut on India's huge Rs 7 lakh crore crude imports, he said.

Stressing on modern transport infrastructure, he said he will also take up the issue of electric highways during his ensuing visit to Sweden this month.

The minister also said that electric vehicles have become popular among Indian companies and start-ups, and days were not far-off when India will be a key player in export of electric vehicles.

He also said that water transport was one of the viable mobility solutions and added that metros could be successful in tier 2 and 3 cities.

Besides Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, work has been initiated on six other express highways out of proposed 22 projects, he said.

Devdiscourse | Feb 13, 2020

Gadkari invites players for electric lane of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway

Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday urged industry players to join hands with the government for the proposed electric lane on Rs 1.03 lakh crore Delhi-Mumbai Expressway while promising to provide policy support to serious players. He said while a stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway is planned as electric lane, the Delhi-Jaipur part of the 1,320 km expressway will be completed before Diwali.

"Indian investors should come forward for investing in electric lane stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai expressway to be built at a cost of Rs 1.03 lakh crore within three years," the Road Transport and Highways Minister said while addressing a conference on 'Developing a Roadmap for Low Carbon & Sustainable Mobility in India' by FICCI here. The minister said the government is ready to provide policy support to serious investors and also appealed them to come forward in the field of alternative fuel including bio-CNG and electric vehicle.

The could cut on India's huge Rs 7 lakh crore crude imports, he said. Stressing on modern transport infrastructure, he said he will also take up the issue of electric highways during his ensuing visit to Sweden this month.

The minister also said that electric vehicles have become popular among Indian companies and start-ups, and days were not far-off when India will be a key player in export of electric vehicles. He also said that water transport was one of the viable mobility solutions and added that metros could be successful in tier 2 and 3 cities.

Besides Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, work has been initiated on six other express highways out of proposed 22 projects, he said. The entire Delhi Mumbai Express Highway will be completed in the next three years, the minister said, adding that land acquisition for the project has been completed and resulted in savings to the tune of Rs 16,000 crore on it being on a new alignment.

Devdiscourse | Feb 13, 2020

Nitin Gadkari urges industry to use waterways transportation for goods

Mr. Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport & Highways and MSME, Govt of India, today urged the industry to use waterways as a mode of transportation for goods to reduce cost and become competitive in the export market.

Speaking at a conference on 'Developing A Roadmap for Low Carbon & Sustainable Mobility in India', organised by FICCI Mr. Gadkari said, "This is the appropriate time. We have the best technology; economic viability and we need public-private investments. To support these, we have government policies."

Mr. Gadkari said that the government has already started the process of introducing Broad gauge metro in railways using the already existing railway network. He also invited the private sector to explore and invest in this sector. "This model can be given to the private sector to run these metros," he said.

Highlighting the potential in the transport sector, Mr. Gadkari urged the industry to use waterways transportation as a mode for transporting goods. "The most economically viable transport is water transport and public transport on electricity," he added.

Mr. Gadkari said that the Delhi Mumbai express highway, part of the 22 green highway project, will be completed in the next 3 years and will reduce travel distance by 280 kms. "In the long term, LNG should be used in trucks which will reduce the cost by 40 percent as compared to diesel and CNG for city buses," he added.

Mr. Gadkari invited the private sector to come forward to invest in the conversion of CNG from stubble and solid waste. He added that the government is also working on adopting bio-aviation fuel as a fuel option which will be cheaper than petroleum aviation fuel.

He urged FICCI to develop a policy for the next 25 years focusing on cost-effective, pollution-free, best technology options, ecology, and environment.

Highlighting the potential of e-vehicles in India, Mr. Gadkari said that the government is planning to introduce 10,000 electric buses and the government will support the e-vehicle sector. "By using the world's best technology, we can see a reduction of 10 percent in the logistics cost and will also help in reducing pollution, creation of new jobs and overall development of the economy," added Mr. Gadkari.

He emphasized on different options such as the conversion of waste and sewage into biofuels, utilization of wasteland for Jatropha, promotion hydrogen fuel cells, alternative fuels in the rural sector to contribute towards livelihood generation and waterways as a long-term solution.

Mr. Bharat Salhotra, Chair, FICCI Core Group on Sustainable Mobility and MD, Ronmas India Private Limited said, "Today, we are entering into a new phase to have consultations with the government on India Roadmap for low carbon and sustainable mobility. FICCI has conducted multi-stakeholder consultations for the Roadmap in three Indian cities as well as in international conferences to develop a comprehensive one single roadmap for the country in the transport space."

Mr. Ravi Singh, Secretary General & CEO, WWF India also shared his perspective on the future transport sector of the country.

To provide a long-term vision and action plan to the government for decarbonization of the transport sector
To provide integrated thinking, design and planning perspective on low carbon and sustainable mobility ecosystem in India for the near-term (2022), mid-term (2030) and long-term (2050)

Devdiscourse | Feb 13, 2020

Gadkari invites players for electric lane of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway

Devdiscourse | Feb 13, 2020

Nitin Gadkari urges industry to use waterways transportation for goods

He urged FICCI to develop a policy for the next 25 years focusing on cost-effective, pollution-free, best technology options, ecology, and environment.

Mr. Ravi Singh, Secretary General & CEO, WWF India also shared his perspective on the future transport sector of the country.

To provide a long-term vision and action plan to the government for decarbonization of the transport sector
To provide integrated thinking, design and planning perspective on low carbon and sustainable mobility ecosystem in India for the near-term (2022), mid-term (2030) and long-term (2050)

Business Insider | Feb 13, 2020

Gadkari invites players for electric lane of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway

He said while a stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway is planned as electric lane, the Delhi-Jaipur part of the 1,320 km expressway will be completed before Diwali.

The could cut on India's huge Rs 7 lakh crore crude imports, he said.

Stressing on modern transport infrastructure, he said he will also take up the issue of electric highways during his ensuing visit to Sweden this month.

The minister also said that electric vehicles have become popular among Indian companies and start-ups, and days were not far-off when India will be a key player in export of electric vehicles.

He also said that water transport was one of the viable mobility solutions and added that metros could be successful in tier 2 and 3 cities.

Besides Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, work has been initiated on six other express highways out of proposed 22 projects, he said.

Research Newspaper | Feb 13, 2020

Nitin Gadkari invitations gamers for electrical lane of Delhi-Mumbai Limited-access highway

The may just minimize on India’s large Rs 7 lakh crore crude imports, he stated.

Stressing on trendy delivery infrastructure, he stated he’s going to additionally take in the problem of electrical highways all the way through his resulting seek advice from to Sweden this month.

He additionally stated that water delivery was once probably the most viable mobility answers and added that metros may well be a hit in tier 2 and three towns.

But even so Delhi-Mumbai Limited-access highway, paintings has been initiated on six different categorical highways out of proposed 22 tasks, he stated.

Outlook | Feb 13, 2020

Gadkari invites players for electric lane of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway

He said while a stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway is planned as electric lane, the Delhi-Jaipur part of the 1,320 km expressway will be completed before Diwali.

The could cut on India''s huge Rs 7 lakh crore crude imports, he said.

Stressing on modern transport infrastructure, he said he will also take up the issue of electric highways during his ensuing visit to Sweden this month.

The minister also said that electric vehicles have become popular among Indian companies and start-ups, and days were not far-off when India will be a key player in export of electric vehicles.

He also said that water transport was one of the viable mobility solutions and added that metros could be successful in tier 2 and 3 cities.

Besides Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, work has been initiated on six other express highways out of proposed 22 projects, he said.

Money Control | Feb 13, 2020

Nitin Gadkari invites players for electric lane of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway

The could cut on India's huge Rs 7 lakh crore crude imports, he said.

Stressing on modern transport infrastructure, he said he will also take up the issue of electric highways during his ensuing visit to Sweden this month.

The minister also said that electric vehicles have become popular among Indian companies and start-ups, and days were not far-off when India will be a key player in export of electric vehicles.

He also said that water transport was one of the viable mobility solutions and added that metros could be successful in tier 2 and 3 cities.

Besides Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, work has been initiated on six other express highways out of proposed 22 projects, he said.

PSU Watch | Feb 13, 2020

Gadkari urges industry to use waterways for transportation of goods

Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport & Highways, urged the industry on Thursday to use waterways as a mode of transportation for goods to reduce cost and become competitive in the export market. Speaking at a conference on ‘Developing a Roadmap for Low Carbon & Sustainable Mobility in India,’ organised by FICCI, Gadkari said, “This is the appropriate time. We have the best technology, economic viability and we need public-private investments. To support these, we have government policies.”

'Waterways transportation is most economically viable transport'

Highlighting the potential in the transport sector, Gadkari urged the industry to use waterways transportation as a mode for transporting goods. “The most economically viable transport is water transport and public transport on electricity,” he added.

Gadkari said that the government has already started the process of introducing Broad gauge metro in railways using the already existing railway network. He also invited the private sector to explore and invest in this sector. “This model can be given to the private sector to run these metros,” he said.

Delhi-Mumbai express highway to be completed in next 3 years

Gadkari said that the Delhi-Mumbai express highway, part of the 22 green highway projects, will be completed in the next 3 years and will reduce travel distance by 280 kms. “In the long term, LNG should be used in trucks which will reduce the cost by 40 percent as compared to diesel and CNG for city buses,” he added.

Gadkari invited the private sector to come forward to invest in the conversion of CNG from stubble and solid waste. He added that the government is also working on adopting bio-aviation fuel as a fuel option which will be cheaper than petroleum aviation fuel. He urged FICCI to develop a policy for the next 25 years focusing on cost-effective, pollution-free, best technology options, ecology, and environment.

'Govt planning to introduce 10,000 electric buses'

Highlighting the potential of e-vehicles in India, Gadkari said that the government is planning to introduce 10,000 electric buses and the government will support the e-vehicle sector. “By using the world’s best technology, we can see a reduction of 10 percent in the logistics cost and will also help in reducing pollution, creation of new jobs and the overall development of the economy,” added Gadkari.

He emphasised on different options such as the conversion of waste and sewage into biofuels, utilisation of wasteland for Jatropha, promotion of hydrogen fuel cells, alternative fuels in the rural sector to contribute towards livelihood generation and waterways as a long-term solution.

Business Standard | Feb 13, 2020

Gadkari invites industry players for Delhi-Mumbai Expressway electric lane

Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday urged industry players to join hands with the government for the proposed electric lane on Rs 1.03 trillion Delhi-Mumbai Expressway while promising to provide policy support to serious players.

He said while a stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway is planned as electric lane, the Delhi-Jaipur part of the 1,320 km expressway will be completed before Diwali.

"Indian investors should come forward for investing in electric lane stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai expressway to be built at a cost of Rs 1.03 trillion within three years," the Road Transport and Highways Minister said while addressing a conference on 'Developing a Roadmap for Low Carbon & Sustainable Mobility in India' by FICCI here.

The could cut on India's huge Rs 7 trillion crude imports, he said.

Stressing on modern transport infrastructure, he said he will also take up the issue of electric highways during his ensuing visit to Sweden this month.

The minister also said that electric vehicles have become popular among Indian companies and start-ups, and days were not far-off when India will be a key player in export of electric vehicles.

He also said that water transport was one of the viable mobility solutions and added that metros could be successful in tier 2 and 3 cities.

Besides Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, work has been initiated on six other express highways out of proposed 22 projects, he said.

livemint | Feb 13, 2020

Nitin Gadkari invites players for electric lane of Delhi-Mumbai Expressway

Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Thursday urged industry players to join hands with the government for the proposed electric lane on ₹1.03 lakh crore Delhi-Mumbai Expressway while promising to provide policy support to serious players.

He said while a stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway is planned as electric lane, the Delhi-Jaipur part of the 1,320 km expressway will be completed before Diwali.

"Indian investors should come forward for investing in electric lane stretch of the Delhi-Mumbai expressway to be built at a cost of ₹1.03 lakh crore within three years," the Road Transport and Highways Minister said while addressing a conference on 'Developing a Roadmap for Low Carbon & Sustainable Mobility in India' by FICCI here.

The could cut on India's huge ₹7 lakh crore crude imports, he said.

Stressing on modern transport infrastructure, he said he will also take up the issue of electric highways during his ensuing visit to Sweden this month.

The minister also said that electric vehicles have become popular among Indian companies and start-ups, and days were not far-off when India will be a key player in export of electric vehicles.

He also said that water transport was one of the viable mobility solutions and added that metros could be successful in tier 2 and 3 cities.

Besides Delhi-Mumbai Expressway, work has been initiated on six other express highways out of proposed 22 projects, he said.

"We have saved about ₹16,000 crore on land acquisition front alone as land could be acquired at a cost of ₹80 lakh per hectare for the project," he said, adding that the expressway will unlock new economic opportunities in hinterland districts of Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Gujarat.

The Free Press Journal | Nov 06, 2019

Govt to change base year of GDP calculation again?

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI) will, in next few months, decide on a new base year for calculating the GDP and is working to bring in a new series for national accounts in place of the existing base year of 2011-12, a senior official said on Tuesday.

Though the year 2017-18 is under consideration as the new base year, no final decision has been taken as the committees of experts are awaiting some more data before finalising their opinion, MOSPI Secretary Pravin Srivastava said at an industry chamber FICCI-organised conference in New Delhi.

"The decision to change the base year (of GDP) would be taken in the next few months. We are waiting for Annual Survey of Industries and the Consumer Expenditure Survey. All the preparatory work is getting ready for that. Once the result is out, we will place it before the respective committees (to decide about the base year," Srivastava said.

In January last year, the Statistics Ministry had said that it is set to change the base year of national accounts to 2017-18 from 2011-12 after completion of the household consumer expenditure survey and labour force data by the end of 2018.

"My ministry has planned to revise the base year of National Accounts Statistics to 2017-18. The preparatory work for this huge exercise has been started," the then Statistics Minister D.V. Sadananda Gowda had said while addressing a press conference on the government's performance over a three-year period.

Former Chief Statistician T.C.A Anant had said: "Once the results of employment survey and household consumer expenditure survey come out then base year can be changed. Those are critical inputs into the base revision."

The Quint | Nov 06, 2019

Amid slowdown, govt may decide new base year for GDP in few months

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation will decide on a new base year for the GDP series in a few months, a senior official said on Tuesday, 5 November.

Though the ministry is considering 2017-18 as the new base year, no decision has been taken as the committees of experts are awaiting some more data before finalising their opinion.

"The decision to change the base year (of GDP) would be taken in next few months. We are waiting for Annual Survey of Industries and the Consumer Expenditure Survey. All the preparatory work is getting ready for that.

He also said that earlier when new series with 2011-12 base year was being worked out, the ministry thought of revising it to 2009-10.

But then the economists decided that 2009-10 was not a good year globally and domestically and finalised 2011-12 as the base year for new series of GDP.

On whether the economy will see recovery he said, it is too early to comment on it because lot of inputs for tabulation depend upon the IIP (index of industrial production), CPI and WPI data, which would come in the first fortnight of November.

Regarding experts' views that industrial production for September will see a decline after core sector output contracted 5.2 percent during the month, Srivastava said, "We do not speculate data. We wait for data to come because the data will tell us."

When asked about the need for new GDP base year, he said the change in base year actually captures the change in structures of the economy.

newKerala.com | Nov 06, 2019

Government to bring in new base year for GDP calculation

Former Chief Statistician T.C.A Anant had said "Once the results of employment survey and household consumer expenditure survey come out then base year can be changed. Those are critical inputs into the base revision."

Business Standard | Nov 06, 2019

Government looking at Non-Intrusive ways of Data Collection: Chief Statistician of India

Mr Pravin Srivastava, Secretary, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, said that the government is looking for non-intrusive ways of data collection and urged the industry to share related technologies. Speaking at the inauguration of a two-day 'India Sustainability Conclave 2019 - Balancing Business Goals in a Sustainability Paradigm', organized by FICCI with the support of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, and partnered by the UN Environment Programme, Mr Srivastava said that the ministry, which has been gathering data through traditional door-to-door surveys, is bringing in new methods of data collection.

"We have shifted now to an electronic-based data collection mechanism. But door-to-door surveys are still there. We are exploring non-intrusive ways of data collection. We seek your help and cooperation for technologies that can measure data on several fronts, social and economic, and can give better insights," he said. Drawing a parallel between natural resources and data, the Chief Statistician of India said that everybody requires both natural resources and data but views these as free resources, and very few are ready to invest in these. As for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), he said much more data is needed. "There's a huge amount of data that still needs to be tapped. There's a huge amount of information that still needs to be channelized before we can look at achieving these Sustainable Development Goals. All the international agencies are collaborating on this," he said, adding that the SDGs have provided the platform for integration and collaboration across countries and sectors.

Business Standard | Nov 05, 2019

Govt may change new base year for GDP to 2017-18; decision likely soon

The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation will decide on a new base year for the GDP series in a few months, a senior official said on Tuesday.

The ministry is working to bring in a new series of national accounts which would result in change in the existing base year of 2011-12.

Though the ministry is considering 2017-18 as the new base year, no decision has been taken as the committees of experts are awaiting some more data before finalising their opinion.

"Once the result is out, we will place it before the respective committees (to decide about the base year)," MOSPI Secretary Pravin Srivastava told reporters at a FICCI conference adding that the decision has to be taken considering global and national scenario as well.

He also said that earlier when new series with 2011-12 base year was being worked out, the ministry thought of revising it to 2009-10.

But then the economists decided that 2009-10 was not a good year globally and domestically and finalised 2011-12 as the base year for new series of GDP.

The economic growth slowed to over six-year low of 5 per cent in April-June this fiscal. The government has been taking steps to boost investment and perk up the sagging economy.

Regarding experts' views that industrial production for September will see a decline after core sector output contracted 5.2 per cent during the month, Srivastava said, "We do not speculate data. We wait for data to come because the data will tell us."

When asked about the need for new GDP base year, he said the change in base year actually captures the change in structures of the economy.

livemint | Nov 05, 2019

New base year for GDP to be decided in few months