Alternative fuels key to making India self-reliant: Nitin Gadkari

Mumbai: Transitioning to alternatives like biofuels and electric, among others, is critical for pursuing sustainable development and making India self-reliant said minister for road transport and highways Nitin Gadkari.

India's transport sector accounts for 40% of air pollution and fossil fuel worth ₹22 lakh crore is imported every year, Gadkari said Wednesday in his address at the 'Times Drive Green Conclave & Awards 2024'. The event honoured winners across over 20 categories in the electric mobility and sustainability sectors. "India is the fastest-growing economy in the world and our mission is to make India Aatmanirbhar Bharat - and pursue sustainable development," Gadkari added.

CNG-powered vehicles are gaining popularity in regions like Punjab, Haryana, Western Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, and Maharashtra, and over 400 bio-CNG projects underway, the minister noted, adding that he has supported the transition to electric and biofuels for tractors. Initiatives like the municipal waste-to-bio-CNG projects in Nagpur show the potential of a green economy to drive sustainability, create jobs, boost exports, and make India self-reliant, he said.