Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has emphasised that the decreasing cost of lithium-ion batteries will significantly lower the price of electric vehicles (EVs), making them more affordable to a larger section of the population. Speaking at the launch of an eco-friendly electric cycle in Thane on Monday, Gadkari highlighted the importance of transitioning from fossil fuels to sustainable energy sources in combating pollution, one of India’s biggest challenges.

Gadkari pointed out that India’s dependency on fossil fuels imposes both an economic and environmental burden, with the country spending approximately Rs 22 lakh crore annually on fuel imports. He stressed that the shift towards clean energy alternatives like electric vehicles and biofuels is essential not only for environmental reasons but also for India’s economic progress.