5 days ago
Government to introduce new bill to enhance CE industry's competitiveness: Road transport minister
NEW DELHI: Green fuels and advanced technologies such as electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles are not just environmentally responsible but also financially advantageous, said
Nitin Gadkari
, Minister for Road Transport and Highways, underscoring the critical role of sustainability in the construction equipment (CE) industry's growth.
Speaking at The Indian Construction Equipment Manufacturers' Association (ICEMA) Annual Session 2025 in New Delhi, Gadkari forecasted a robust global demand if the CE sector embraces sustainability, quality, and innovation.
The
construction equipment industry
witnessed 3% growth in FY25, with equipment sales reaching 1,40,191 units while exports have grown by 10%. 'If the CE industry truly commits to sustainable practices and innovation, global demand will rise significantly,' he added.
Gadkari emphasized on the critical need for technological advancement and
sustainability in construction
equipment. He reiterated the government's zero-tolerance stance on quality lapses, 'We are very strict about quality, whether it's roads or equipment. Anyone compromising quality will be held accountable.'
He also urged the CE industry to invest in high-capacity machinery for tunneling and pre-cast construction, 'We are building tunnels worth ₹3 lakh crore, but machinery availability remains a bottleneck. European nations have advanced tunnel boring equipment, we need to adapt such machines for Indian conditions. Pre-cast is now mandatory in many projects, requiring specialized machinery. I urge your industry to step up in these areas.'
The minister assured industry members that policy support is forthcoming, 'We are bringing a new bill in the next Parliament session to address the challenges the CE industry is facing in competing with global players. Your concerns have been heard, and they will be addressed.'
V. Vivekanand, president, ICEMA and managing director of
Caterpillar India
, said, 'To build a safer, more efficient future, we must make skilling mandatory for all operators. It's not just about complianceiit's about improving quality, minimizing risk, and unlocking long-term productivity."
