Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday 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, 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,” the Prime Minister 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 percent 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.”
The Prime Minister also recalled his tenure as Gujarat’s Chief Minister in 2012, when land was allotted to Maruti Suzuki in Hansalpur. He paid tribute to the late Osamu Suzuki, noting his vision for Maruti’s expansion in India, and said he was pleased to see it bearing fruit.
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 ₹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 emphasized 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.
“India will not stop here. In sectors where we are performing well, the goal is to achieve even greater excellence,” the Prime Minister said, expressing confidence that today’s initiatives will strengthen the foundation of a developed India by 2047.
Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Japan’s Ambassador to India Ono Keiichi, and senior officials of Suzuki Motor Corporation were also present at the event.