Underlining its commitment to the nation, the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) recently held its first-ever CSR Conclave in New Delhi. Aptly themed as ‘Building the Nation, Responsibly’, the conclave saw all the key SIAM members coming together to ensure inclusive development of the society, while protecting the environment and ecology.
The conclave was inaugurated by Mr. Girish Shankar, Secretary, Department of Heavy Industry, Ministry of Heavy Industry & Public Enterprise. Praising the automobile industry and SIAM for their efforts in nation-building, Mr. Shankar said: “We all know that the auto industry and the automotive sector are growing very fast, and are really the engine of growth of the economy.”
Referring to the vision document of the industry, he noted that the Indian automotive industry will be among the top three industries of the world by 2026. “At the same time the industry will also encompass safe, efficient and environmental-friendly conditions for affordable mobility of people and transportation of goods in the country.”
In his welcome address, Mr. Kenichi Ayukawa, Treasurer, SIAM, and Managing Director & CEO, Maruti Suzuki India, reiterated: “Automobile industry is contributing 7.1% to the GDP in India. Around 32 million people are involved directly or indirectly in this industry. Total investment by the industry has been to the tune of $35 billion. Our vision is that over the next decade, the Indian automobile sector must contribute in excess of 12% of the country’s GDP, creating nearly 65 million additional jobs by 2026.”
“Now the time has come when we all get together as one entity to draft to implement a socially responsible industry plan so that we can make a bigger possible impact,” Mr. Ayukawa said while sharing his views on the corporate social responsibilities of the automobile industry.
Putting the theme of the event in perspective, Mr. Naveen Soni, Chairman, SIAM-CSR Group, encapsulated the CSR activities of the industry. The companies are working selflessly on road safety, environmental rejuvenation, education and skill development.