This refers to the article, “Electric vehicle tech needs strong push” (February 22) by Kota Sriraj. The writer's stand is timely and must be pursued without any glitch. The signals emanating from the Government are not only not clear but confusing, conflicting and contrary to well laid out vision of the leadership on the subject. This vacillating attitude is not only undesirable, but must be spurned right with. We are in the vanguard of the global efforts in the climate change action. We are also a serious nation wanting to skirt the damages that will befall our planet because of this man-made disaster. Prime Minister's Davos sermon is the testimony to this end. Why then this confusionIJ Are we trying to please certain manufacturing lobbiesIJ Or is it a fear from the devil of unemployment that dithers us from having a firm standIJ The time is running out and we have no option but to save this planet and ourselves. It is existential matter.
The world is already shifting to this EV technology. From large number of electrical vehicles running and replacing the traditional ones on the streets of Europe and other developed countries to powerful Tesla roadsters indicate the direction of future. Are we then afraid of the onslaught of this new tech because it could be disruptiveIJ The fears are unfounded. Our own technical manpower and expertise together with new research inputs and innovations by our industry and higher engineering institutes should be able to face the challenge. Our leadership has got to provide a clear-cut policy and follow it relentlessly.