India's auto sector reflects nation's aspirations: Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on Friday that India, with its large aspiring middle-class base and young demography, and where ease of travel is one of the top priorities, can ensure a bright future for the automobile sector.

- Rajeev Jayaswal

Addressing a gathering after inaugurating the Bharat Mobility Global Expo 2025 at Bharat Mandapam in Delhi, the Prime Minister also emphasised that India remained an outstanding destination for every investor looking to shape the future of the mobility sector.

"Friends, today's Bharat is full of aspirations and youth energy. I see this aspiration in India's automotive industry. Last year, Bharat's auto industry grew by about 12%. Exports (of automobiles) are also growing with the mantra of 'Make in India, Make for the World'. The number of cars sold every year in Bharat is far more than the population of many countries," he said.

India exports approximately 25 million cars in a year. In 2024 (calendar year), car sales in India rose 4.2% to 4.27 units million and two-wheeler sales by 14.5% to 19.5 million units.

Recalling the contributions of industry legends Ratan Tata (of the Tata group, which runs Tata Motors and JLR) and Osamu Suzuki (of Suzuki Motor Corp, whose subsidiary Maruti Suzuki is India's largest car maker) in fulfilling the mobility aspirations of Indian middle class, Modi said that their legacy will inspire the mobility sector.

"At the auto sector's largest event, I also remember Ratan Tata and Osamu Suzuki. In growing India's auto sector and in fulfilling the dreams of its middle class, these two noble personalities have made great contributions. Their legacy will continue to inspire India's entire mobility sector," he added. Both Tata and Suzuki died in 2024.

After visiting the exhibition, PM said the future for mobility in India was bright and positive. "India's automotive industry is fantastic and also future-ready," he said.