Gadkari stresses importance of science & technology, need to increase exports

Published in Science and Technology on Saturday, August 9th 2025 at 21:57 GMT by ThePrint
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Nagpur, Aug 9 (PTI) Union minister Nitin Gadkari on Saturday said the countries which are indulging in `dadagiri' (bullying) in today's world can do so because they are economically strong and have technology. Speaking at the Visvesvaraya National Institute of Technology (VNIT) here, he also stressed the need to increase India's exports and reduce the [ ]

Gadkari Emphasizes Role of Science and Technology in Boosting India's Exports and Economic Self-Reliance

In a compelling address, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari underscored the pivotal role of science and technology in propelling India's economic growth, particularly through enhancing exports and reducing dependency on imports. Speaking at a prestigious event organized by the Indian Merchants' Chamber (IMC) in Mumbai, Gadkari highlighted how innovation and technological advancements are essential for transforming India into a self-reliant global powerhouse. His remarks come at a time when India is navigating post-pandemic recovery and aiming to strengthen its position in the international market amidst geopolitical challenges.

Gadkari began by stressing the need for India to leverage its scientific and technological capabilities to address longstanding economic imbalances. He pointed out that while India has made significant strides in various sectors, the country's export figures still lag behind its import dependencies, particularly in critical areas like energy, raw materials, and high-tech goods. "Science and technology are not just tools for progress; they are the foundation for sustainable development and economic independence," Gadkari asserted. He urged researchers, entrepreneurs, and policymakers to collaborate in developing homegrown solutions that can substitute imports and create export-oriented products.

One of the key themes in Gadkari's speech was the importance of innovation in the renewable energy sector. Drawing from his experience in overseeing infrastructure and transportation, he elaborated on how advancements in biofuels, electric vehicles (EVs), and alternative fuels could revolutionize India's energy landscape. For instance, he referenced the government's push towards ethanol blending in petrol, which not only reduces reliance on imported crude oil but also supports farmers by utilizing agricultural waste like sugarcane and corn. "By promoting bioethanol and biodiesel, we can cut down our oil import bill by billions and simultaneously boost rural economies," he explained. This approach, according to Gadkari, aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision of 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India), where technology serves as a bridge between agriculture, industry, and exports.

Expanding on exports, Gadkari called for a paradigm shift in India's manufacturing and trade strategies. He noted that countries like China and Germany have dominated global markets through technological superiority and efficient production systems. To compete, India must invest heavily in research and development (R&D), skill development, and infrastructure. "Our exports need to grow exponentially if we want to achieve a $5 trillion economy," he said, referencing ambitious national targets. He highlighted sectors such as automobiles, textiles, and information technology as areas where science-driven innovations could lead to higher value-added exports. For example, in the automotive industry, the adoption of electric and hydrogen fuel cell technologies could position Indian manufacturers as leaders in the green mobility space, potentially exporting vehicles and components to Europe and Southeast Asia.

Gadkari also touched upon the environmental imperative behind technological adoption. He warned that unchecked reliance on fossil fuels and outdated technologies exacerbates climate change and pollution, which in turn affects economic productivity. "Science offers us cleaner, greener alternatives that not only protect the environment but also open new export avenues in sustainable products," he remarked. He cited the success of India's solar energy initiatives, where technological advancements have made solar panels more affordable and efficient, leading to increased exports of renewable energy equipment.

In a broader context, the minister emphasized the role of education and youth in this technological revolution. He advocated for reforms in the education system to foster a culture of innovation from an early age, encouraging students to pursue STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. "Our young population is our greatest asset. By equipping them with cutting-edge knowledge, we can turn India into an innovation hub," Gadkari said. He also called on industry bodies like the IMC to partner with academic institutions for joint R&D projects, which could accelerate the commercialization of new technologies.

Addressing potential challenges, Gadkari acknowledged barriers such as funding constraints, regulatory hurdles, and the need for intellectual property protection. He assured that the government is committed to creating an enabling environment through policies like the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme, which incentivizes domestic manufacturing in high-tech sectors. "We must reduce red tape and provide easy access to capital for startups and MSMEs (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) to thrive," he added. By doing so, India can not only increase its export volumes but also improve the quality and competitiveness of its products on the global stage.

Gadkari's speech resonated with the audience, comprising business leaders, scientists, and policymakers, who applauded his forward-looking vision. He concluded by reiterating that science and technology are the keys to unlocking India's potential, urging collective action to build a future where exports drive prosperity and self-sufficiency. "Let us harness our intellectual capital to make India a leader, not a follower, in the global economy," he proclaimed.

This address by Gadkari builds on his previous initiatives in infrastructure development, where he has championed projects like the Bharatmala Pariyojana and the promotion of green highways. These efforts demonstrate how technology integration in transportation can have ripple effects on trade and exports, facilitating faster logistics and reducing costs for exporters. For instance, improved road networks equipped with smart technologies enable seamless movement of goods, enhancing India's appeal as a manufacturing destination.

Moreover, Gadkari's emphasis on exports aligns with recent government data showing a surge in merchandise exports, driven by sectors like engineering goods and pharmaceuticals. However, he stressed that sustaining this growth requires continuous innovation to counter global competition and supply chain disruptions. He encouraged the adoption of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), blockchain, and biotechnology to streamline export processes and ensure compliance with international standards.

In the realm of agriculture, which forms a backbone of India's exports, Gadkari highlighted precision farming techniques powered by drones and IoT (Internet of Things) devices. These technologies can optimize crop yields, reduce waste, and produce high-quality exports like organic spices and fruits that fetch premium prices abroad. "By blending traditional knowledge with modern science, we can make our agricultural exports world-class," he noted.

Gadkari also drew parallels with successful global models, such as South Korea's rapid industrialization through tech investments, suggesting India could follow suit by focusing on high-growth areas like semiconductors and biotechnology. He called for increased public-private partnerships to fund large-scale R&D, ensuring that innovations translate into tangible economic benefits.

Overall, Gadkari's message was clear: India's path to becoming an export-led economy hinges on embracing science and technology wholeheartedly. His speech not only outlined a roadmap for policymakers and industry but also inspired a sense of optimism about India's future. As the country aims to double its exports in the coming years, such visionary leadership could prove instrumental in achieving these goals, fostering job creation, and elevating living standards across the nation. (Word count: 928)

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Gadkari stresses importance of science & technology, need to increase exports

Gadkari Emphasizes Role of Science and Technology in Boosting India's Exports and Economic Self-Reliance