Blitz Bureau
NEW DELHI: PRIME Minister Narendra Modi has said that the Make in India initiative has created a favourable environment for both global and domestic manufacturers in the country. He made the remarks while inaugurating a series of green mobility initiatives at Suzuki Motor Corporation’s plant in Hansalpur, Gujarat, marking a milestone in India’s clean energy and manufacturing journey.
Addressing the gathering in Ahmedabad on August 25, PM Modi said the launch coincides with the festive spirit of Ganeshotsav and adds a new chapter to the Make in India movement. He flagged off Suzuki’s first global strategic Battery Electric Vehicle (BEV), e VITARA, manufactured in India and set to be exported to over 100 countries, including advanced markets such as Europe and Japan.
“India is taking large strides towards becoming Aatmanirbhar in green energy. Starting today, electric vehicles made in India will reach 100 countries,” he said, adding that the initiative also deepens India-Japan economic ties.
Alongside the EV launch, PM Modi inaugurated local production of hybrid battery electrodes at the TDS Lithium-Ion Battery plant in Gujarat – a joint venture between Toshiba, Denso and Suzuki. With this development, more than 80 per cent of battery value will now be manufactured domestically. He noted that this localization will accelerate India’s EV ecosystem and reduce dependence on imports.
Highlighting India’s growing role in global manufacturing, PM Modi said, “India possesses the strength of democracy, the advantage of demography, and a vast skilled workforce – creating a win-win situation for every partner. Companies like Maruti Suzuki have become brand ambassadors of Make in India.” On semiconductor manufacturing, PM Modi announced that six new plants are set to be established in the country, underlining the government’s focus on futuristic industries. He also spoke about the recently launched National Critical Mineral Mission, which will conduct over 1,200 exploratory campaigns to identify key minerals crucial for the auto and EV sector.
Reaffirming India’s commitment to clean mobility, PM Modi pointed to new initiatives such as the PM E-DRIVE scheme, which has earmarked Rs 11,000 crore for e-ambulances and hybrid EVs. He praised Maruti Suzuki for developing a hybrid ambulance prototype in just six months. PM Modi emphasised that India-Japan ties extend beyond diplomacy, rooted in “culture and mutual trust.” He noted Japan’s role as a partner in Gujarat’s Vibrant Summit since its inception and said people-to-people connections between the two nations are deepening, especially in education and skill development.
