Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways, emphasized the importance of vehicle scrappage in achieving India’s green mobility goals. He explained that the future is not solely dependent on electric vehicles or biofuels, but also on the effective scrapping of old vehicles. Scrapping will reduce pollution and provide essential raw materials for the automotive and clean energy industries.
During the 7th Auto Retail Conclave organized by the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), Gadkari stated that scrapping allows the recovery of high-quality, 100% recyclable metals. He believes this will cut costs and boost domestic manufacturing capabilities.
Gadkari encouraged vehicle manufacturers and dealers to see vehicle scrapping as an opportunity. He pointed out India’s significant fossil fuel import bill, which amounts to roughly ₹22 lakh crore annually. To address this, a strategic approach involving electric vehicles, alternative fuels, and scrapping is essential.
He further added that the demand for electric vehicles and innovative battery technologies, like sodium and aluminum batteries, will see rapid growth. Scrapping will provide a substantial supply of necessary minerals for these batteries. The government is currently developing a professional policy to promote the utilization of recycled materials from scrapping.
Gadkari also advised the industry that scrappage not only benefits manufacturers in the domestic market but also opens up export opportunities. He specifically called upon dealers to participate in vehicle scrapping, creating a new significant market for them.
This underscores the role of scrapping policy in promoting green mobility in India. Collaborative efforts from dealers and manufacturers are expected to benefit the industry and move the nation toward a sustainable and environmentally conscious future.