Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, led the 10th Meeting of the Transport Ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in New Delhi. The SCO comprises eight member states, including India, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Pakistan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. During the meeting, member states discussed the importance of collaborating on research and development to address current challenges in the road transport sector. The member states also supported the concept of cooperation to reduce carbon emissions, promote digital transformation, and implement innovative technologies for more efficient and sustainable transport.

To facilitate collaboration among member states, a Special Working Group was established to share knowledge and best practices related to sustainable transport development. Nitin Gadkari emphasized the need for collaboration and cooperation among member states to develop effective solutions for the road transport sector. He also called for a shift towards adopting green and clean fuels, developing efficient and reliable transport systems, and promoting sustainability in the road construction sector. The Indian government has identified “Green Growth” as a key area for reducing the carbon intensity of the economy and promoting green mobility.

During the meeting, India’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2070 under the “Panchamrita” fivefold strategy was highlighted. Nitin Gadkari emphasized that collaboration and cooperation between member countries are necessary to achieve sustainable transport development, reduce carbon emissions, and improve transport system efficiency within the SCO regions. India is currently the chair of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, which is an intergovernmental organization founded on June 15, 2001, in Shanghai.