Prime Minister Narendra Modi responded to Tesla CEO Elon Musk's previous statement expressing admiration for him by emphasizing that Musk is not just a supporter of Modi but also of India as a whole. Modi clarified that during their meeting in New York last year, Musk had conveyed his support for India in general.
In an interview with ANI news agency, PM Modi reiterated that while investments from any source are welcomed in India, it is essential that the products manufactured in the country provide employment opportunities for its citizens. He stressed the importance of ensuring that investments translate into opportunities for Indian youth.
PM Modi's remarks coincided with reports from Reuters suggesting that Tesla is actively exploring locations for showrooms in major Indian cities like New Delhi and Mumbai, with plans to initiate sales later this year. Additionally, Musk himself confirmed his intention to visit India soon to meet with Prime Minister Modi.
Reflecting on their previous interactions, PM Modi recalled a visit to one of Musk's factories in 2015, during which Musk demonstrated his vision for the future. Modi also highlighted the growth of the electric vehicle sector in India, inviting more companies in this domain to invest in the country. He noted a significant increase in electric vehicle sales from 2014-15 to 2023-24, indicating India's rapid progress in this sector.