India needs to cut imports, focus on increasing exports to become 3rd-largest economy: Nitin Gadkari

08 Jan 2026 Evaluate

Suggesting measures to achieve India’s goal to become third-largest economy in the world, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has said that the country, which is the fourth largest economy in the world, needs to cut its imports and have to more focus on increasing exports. He highlighted how agricultural waste can be converted into a valuable national resource and help in reducing the country's crude imports. He also noted that the use of bio-bitumen, a petroleum-free component, in road construction is a transformative step towards the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

He added that the country can save nearly $4,500 crore in foreign exchange with 15 per cent blending, and substantially reduce its dependence on imported crude oil. He further said that the country is the first in the world to commercially produce bio-bitumen. This innovation will empower farmers, generate rural livelihoods, and boost the rural economy. He said bio-bitumen truly reflects the government's commitment to sustainable development, self-reliance, and environmentally responsible growth, paving the way for a cleaner and greener future.

He also suggested that agriculture and construction equipment manufacturers should promote vehicles that run on alternative fuels and are powered by flex-engines. He said the government has identified 10 highway stretches in different parts of the country for plying green hydrogen-powered trucks with an aim to reduce vehicular pollution. He emphasised that India should become an exporter of energy, not an importer. He noted the country is spending Rs 22 lakh crore for importing fossil fuels, and because of the import of fossil fuels, the country is facing the problem of pollution.


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