Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday made a forceful call for India to lead globally through pro-development policies, good governance, and investment-friendly reforms, as he inaugurated the first of two major projects at the Maruti Suzuki plant in Hansalpur, Gujarat.

The event marked the rollout of the first Maruti Suzuki e-Vitara electric vehicle, followed by the announcement of the country’s first plant dedicated to hybrid battery electrode manufacturing. Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel and Japanese Ambassador Keiichi Ono were also present at the ceremony.

Addressing the gathering, PM Modi said, “Today, the entire world is looking towards India. At such a time, no state should lag behind. Every state should take advantage of this opportunity. Investors coming to Hindustan should be so confused that they think, should I go to this state or that state. I invite all states, come, let's compete in Reforms, compete in Pro-Development Policies, compete in Good Governance.”

He emphasized the importance of swadeshi and the Make in India initiative, stating that India has created a favourable environment for both global and domestic manufacturers. “The world will drive electric vehicles that are made in India,” Modi added, flagging off the e-Vitara from the Hansalpur facility.

The Prime Minister highlighted India’s demographic advantage and skilled workforce, calling it a “win-win situation for every partner of ours”. He praised Maruti Suzuki, noting, “Today, Suzuki Japan is manufacturing in India, and the cars made here are being exported back to Japan. This is not only a symbol of the strength of the relationship between India and Japan, but also reflects the global confidence in India. In a way, companies like Maruti Suzuki have become brand ambassadors of Make in India… Now, the EVs that will run in dozens of countries around the world will have written on them – Made In India.”