ARAI’s Diamond Jubilee and SIAT 2026: Driving Innovation
Speaking at the inauguration, Shri Kumaraswamy congratulated ARAI for its six decades of pioneering contributions to India’s automotive ecosystem. He described the organization’s work in advancing vehicle safety, emissions reduction, and technology-driven mobility as “commendable and transformative.” SIAT 2026, held in association with SAE International and SAEINDIA, highlights India’s commitment to innovation, safety, and environmental sustainability in automotive technology.
India’s Economic Growth and Automotive Ambitions
The Minister highlighted India’s rapid economic ascent, noting that it has emerged as the world’s fourth-largest economy with a GDP of USD $4.18 trillion. With projections of USD $7.3 trillion by 2030, India is positioning itself as a global industrial and technology hub. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the nation is pursuing net-zero emissions by 2070, focusing on Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives to strengthen domestic automotive manufacturing.
Focus on Electric Vehicles and Clean Mobility
Shri Kumaraswamy emphasized that electric mobility is central to India’s clean transport goals, reducing fossil fuel dependence, lowering emissions, and creating opportunities for Indian industry and workforce. He highlighted government schemes such as FAME-II, supporting over 16.71 lakh electric vehicles and 9,000 public charging stations, and the PM E-DRIVE initiative, which has facilitated the sale of over 20 lakh EVs.
The Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Auto scheme, with an outlay of ₹25,938 crore, promotes domestic value addition and global competitiveness. Additionally, initiatives like PLI-ACC and the Rare Earth Permanent Magnet (REPM) scheme aim to strengthen battery manufacturing and indigenous component production for EVs, wind turbines, and defence systems.
Strengthening EV Infrastructure and Industry Performance
To reduce transport-related pollution from commercial vehicles, ₹2,000 crore under the PM E-DRIVE scheme is earmarked for over 70,000 charging stations nationwide. Vehicle production rose from 28.4 million units in FY 2023-24 to 31 million units in FY 2024-25, while exports increased from 4.5 million to 5.36 million units. These figures reflect the success of government policies in fostering a clean, competitive, and sustainable automotive sector.
Exhibition and New Research Facilities at ARAI
During SIAT 2026, Shri Kumaraswamy toured exhibition stalls, engaged with startups, researchers, and explored emerging technologies in vehicle safety, electrification, and connected mobility. He inaugurated three new facilities at ARAI’s Mobility Research Centre in Takwe, Pune, aimed at enhancing testing, certification, and advanced research capabilities for India’s automotive sector.
Empowering MSMEs, Startups, and Future Mobility
The Minister appreciated the growing participation of MSMEs and startups in SIAT 2026, acknowledging ARAI’s role in nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship. He expressed optimism that the symposium would serve as a platform for collaboration among researchers, technocrats, and academicians, reinforcing India’s commitment to building a resilient, innovation-driven, and globally competitive automotive ecosystem aligned with Viksit Bharat and Aatmanirbhar Bharat visions.
