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Gadkari urges tractor makers to adopt alternative fuels, promoting sustainability, reducing costs for farmers, and boosting rural development.
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari recently called on tractor manufacturers to adopt alternative fuels to promote sustainable agriculture and reduce the environmental impact of farming. Speaking at a conference organized by the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), he highlighted the benefits of transitioning to greener fuel sources, which include lower operational costs for farmers and a positive impact on the environment.
Gadkari reassured tractor manufacturers that the government is committed to supporting this shift by considering adjustments in the duty structure. "We are ready to assist by easing certain duties, ensuring that the prices of tractors remain competitive as the industry moves toward alternative fuels," said Gadkari. He stressed that such a transition is not only environmentally friendly but also economically beneficial, as it could lead to reduced expenses for farmers in the long run.
As a strong advocate of green technology, Gadkari encouraged entrepreneurs in the Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector to focus on innovation, job creation, and wealth generation. He pointed out that adopting new technologies, especially in rural areas, can drive significant economic development.
"The agro-processing industry plays a vital role in boosting both the agricultural sector and the local economy," Gadkari noted, urging the MSME sector to embrace technological advancements that can benefit rural communities.
Gadkari acknowledged the challenges faced by the MSME sector, which contributes 48% of India's exports and 35% of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Some of the major hurdles include high electricity tariffs and delayed payments to entrepreneurs. "The central government is actively working to address these issues to support the growth of the MSME sector," Gadkari assured the audience.
During his speech, Gadkari also discussed the impact of the Mother Dairy project in Nagpur, which aims to collect 1.5 million liters of milk daily. He emphasized that this project will create jobs and improve local incomes in Vidarbha, contributing to the social and economic development of the region.
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As India moves towards a more sustainable future, Gadkari's call for tractor manufacturers to shift to alternative fuels marks a significant step in the agricultural sector's evolution. With government support and the adoption of green technologies, the farming industry could see reduced costs and a smaller ecological footprint, benefiting both farmers and the environment.