Taking a significant step toward India’s green energy self-reliance, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated multiple green mobility initiatives in Hansalpur, Gujarat, and announced the commencement of electric vehicle (EV) exports to 100 countries. Speaking during Ganeshotsav celebrations, he highlighted the launch of Hybrid Battery Electrode manufacturing in India and reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to “Make in India, Make for the World.”

The Prime Minister emphasised that the foundation for this progress was laid more than a decade ago in 2012, when land was allotted to Maruti Suzuki for its Hansalpur plant during his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat. He credited the foresight of that decision for today’s advancements and praised the late Osamu Suzuki for his long-term vision, recalling that the government had honoured him with the Padma Vibhushan.

Modi underscored India’s strength in democracy, demography, and skilled workforce, noting that Indian-manufactured vehicles are now being exported even to Japan. Maruti Suzuki, already India’s largest car exporter for four consecutive years, will now also lead EV exports, he added, asserting that EVs bearing the “Made in India” label will soon be seen in dozens of countries.

Stressing the importance of batteries in the EV ecosystem, Modi announced that India had moved from fully importing batteries to now producing them domestically. Under a new initiative by TDSG, three Japanese companies will jointly manufacture battery cells in India for the first time. He confirmed that battery cell electrodes will also be locally produced, enhancing India’s self-reliance in hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) technology.

Modi also unveiled the Rs 110 billion PM E-DRIVE scheme, which includes dedicated funding for electric ambulances. He praised Maruti Suzuki for quickly developing a hybrid ambulance prototype following his suggestion last year during a visit to Singapore to convert old vehicles into EVs. He said these ambulances would reduce pollution while revitalising outdated public vehicles.

The Prime Minister reaffirmed India’s emergence as a clean energy and mobility hub. He highlighted the resilience of India’s supply chains amid global disruption and noted that reforms initiated since 2014—such as the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, industrial corridors, and logistics parks—have made Indian manufacturing globally competitive.

He pointed to tangible progress: electronics production has grown by nearly 500 per cent this decade, mobile manufacturing has surged by 2,700 per cent, and defence production has increased by more than 200 per cent. Modi urged all states to foster investment through pro-development policies and compete constructively to attract global manufacturing.

Looking ahead, the Prime Minister spotlighted Mission Manufacturing and India’s push into future-oriented sectors, particularly semiconductors. He announced that six new semiconductor plants are being set up across the country. To address raw material shortages, Modi launched the National Critical Mineral Mission, under which more than 1,200 mineral exploration campaigns will be undertaken.

Modi also noted the deepening India-Japan partnership, recalling how Japan played a key role in the first Vibrant Gujarat Summit two decades ago. He credited the hospitality extended to Japanese businesses—including Japanese-language regulations and cuisine—for strengthening the bond. He called on Maruti Suzuki and other firms to support youth exchange programmes and contribute to mutual skill development.

Concluding, Modi expressed confidence that India’s current momentum in green energy, mobility, and manufacturing will lay the foundation for a developed India by 2047—with Japan as a trusted and enduring partner.

The event was attended by Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendrabhai Patel, Japan’s Ambassador to India H.E. Mr Ono Keiichi, and senior representatives from Suzuki Motor Corporation.