Driverless cars in India: In a recent revelation, Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has quashed the prospects of driverless cars hitting Indian roads. Gadkari, a staunch opponent of autonomous vehicles, has cited compelling reasons for putting the brakes on this futuristic technology.Job Loss ConcernsAddressing concerns in a public programme, Gadkari asserted, As long as I am the transport minister, forget about driverless cars. Many people will be harmed by this, particularly those employed in the driving profession who stand to lose their jobs. I will never allow this to happen.Firm Stand on Teslas EntryEven as the US-based electric vehicle giant, Tesla, eyes the Indian market, Gadkari set conditions for their entry. While welcoming Tesla to India, he insisted that the company must manufacture its cars within the country, refraining from importing vehicles from China. This firm stand challenges Teslas practice of manufacturing in China and then importing into India.Divergent Path from Global TrendsWhile several global car manufacturers are actively pursuing the development of driverless cars, trials and innovations are underway in various countries. However, the Indian government, under Gadkaris leadership, has unequivocally communicated its stance against embracing autonomous vehicles.Indias Roadblock to Driverless FutureDespite advancements in driverless technology and global enthusiasm, the road to autonomous vehicles appears blocked in India. With Nitin Gadkari firmly at the wheel of the countrys transport policies, the prospect of driverless cars navigating Indian streets remains distant, driven by concerns over potential job losses in the driving profession.
