New Delhi: The Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) organized a Post-Budget Webinar titled “E-Mobility, Capital Goods, and the Way Forward” at Udyog Bhawan, New Delhi. Chaired by Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy, the event saw participation from Minister of State Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma, MHI Secretary Kamran Rizvi, Additional Secretary & Financial Advisor Arti Bhatnagar, Additional Secretary Dr. Hanif Qureshi, senior MHI officials, and leaders from the automotive industry.
In his keynote address, Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy highlighted the ministry’s alignment with the vision set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ and the target of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. “We are committed to advancing India’s EV ecosystem, fostering local manufacturing, and promoting sustainable growth through key initiatives such as PLI, FAME, EMPS, and advanced capital goods schemes. These efforts will accelerate India’s journey towards greater self-reliance and enhanced AatmaNirbharta,” he stated.
Minister of State Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma echoed this sentiment, emphasizing that under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi, India is poised to become a $5 trillion economy, with the automotive sector playing a crucial role. He noted that MHI is driving innovation and self-reliance through programs such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Automobiles and Auto Components, and called for continued collaboration to create a sustainable and prosperous future for India.
The webinar featured in-depth discussions on the Union Budget 2024-25, focusing on the expansion and strengthening of the electric vehicle (EV) ecosystem. Key topics included scaling up manufacturing capacity and charging infrastructure, alongside initiatives to increase the adoption of electric buses in public transportation through payment security mechanisms.
One of the major highlights was the announcement of the completion of indigenous technology for Advanced Ultra Super Critical (AUSC) thermal power plants, which promise higher efficiency and sustainability. A joint venture between NTPC and BHEL is set to establish an 800 MW commercial plant utilizing this cutting-edge technology, with government support ensuring the success of this ambitious project.