India must rein in imports, push exports: Gadkari

• ET Bureau

• Published On Jan 8, 2026 at 12:44 PM IST

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari

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New Delhi: Road transport and highways minister Nitin Gadkari Wednesday said India will have to rein in imports while stepping up exports if it aims to become the world’s third-largest economy.

“If the country wants to become the third-largest economy in the world, then it will have to reduce imports and increase exports,” Gadkari said at the CSIR’s Technology Transfer Ceremony.

The minister also highlighted how agricultural waste can be converted into a valuable national resource and help in reducing the country’s crude imports.

“Utilising agro-waste reduces pollution caused by crop burning and strengthens the circular economy. With 15% blending, India can save nearly ₹4,500 crore in foreign exchange and substantially reduce its dependence on imported crude oil,” Gadkari said.

He 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.

Gadkari said India is the first in the world to commercially produce bio-bitumen. This innovation will empower farmers, generate rural livelihoods and boost the rural economy.