The Special Plenary Session 3 at the 65th Annual Convention of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) on “Changing Global Dynamics: Implications for India in Evolving Landscape” emphasised the critical role of self-reliance and exports in strengthening India’s position in the global automotive industry.
Mr. Rajesh Agrawal, Special Secretary, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, said, “The industry has, in the past 35 years, shown a lot of growth and maturity. It is very heartening to see the way Indian exports are growing. We have moved on to build world-class vehicles that not only appeal to aspirations in India but are also received well around the world. The entire auto-component industry is also growing strongly along with the auto industry. India is now increasingly looking at integrating more with the world. We believe the next phase of growth, beyond a $4 trillion economy, will come through exporting to international markets. India needs to start working with developed economies to become part of the global supply chain. We are pursuing FTAs with other countries. Today, we have signed FTAs with 27 countries. For the automobile sector, we have been able to secure much deeper markets. We are trying to calibrate and protect our domestic industries but also create new export opportunities for emerging segments.”
Mr. Sudhakar Dalela, Secretary (ER), Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, addressed the implications of global dynamics for India’s automotive sector, stating, ” India is uniquely positioned to shape the global economic landscape. The sustained work led by the Indian industry is evident in the growth of the Auto Industry, which today contributes significantly to manufacturing GDP. While the domestic market remains robust, it is equally important for the auto industry to strengthen exports and diversify its supply chain, integrating into the global markets and value chains.
Mr. Shailesh Chandra, President, SIAM and Managing Director, Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd. and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd., stated, “With a record 5 million vehicles exported and a landmark UK FTA unlocking new doors, the Indian auto industry is accelerating onto the world stage. Our 20% growth surge is a powerful vote of confidence in Indian quality and value. This is just the beginning. We are now geared to transform this momentum into a new era of global leadership – turning partnerships into self-reliance and potential into unparalleled growth for a ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat.”
The closing remarks were given by Ms. Shradha Suri Marwah, President, ACMA and Chairperson & Managing Director, Subros Ltd., stressing the importance of supply chain resilience.
