THEBUSINESSBYTES
BUREAU
NEW
DELHI, APRIL 10, 2026
Nitin Gadkari, Union
Minister for Road Transport and Highways, underscored the critical role of
innovation, advanced technology and sustainable practices in shaping the future
of the construction sector, while calling for the accelerated adoption of
alternative fuels and emerging technologies to drive next-generation
infrastructure development.
Addressing the
gathering at the 17th CIDC Vishwakarma Awards and Exhibition themed ‘Viksit
Bharat 2047’ in New Delhi, the Minister emphasised that innovation,
entrepreneurship, science, technology, research and skilled practices are
fundamental to converting knowledge into wealth. He noted that the construction
sector continues to evolve through sustained research, technological
advancements and continuous innovation.
Highlighting the
importance of cost efficiency, Gadkari stated that the adoption of modern
construction technologies and process optimisation can significantly enhance
productivity while reducing project costs. He stressed that infrastructure
growth requires faster decision-making, improved project planning and an
uncompromising commitment to quality standards.
The Minister pointed out
that timely completion of key prerequisites such as land acquisition and
statutory clearances is essential for smooth project execution. He observed
that delays arising from pending approvals and procedural bottlenecks have
historically affected project timelines and strained the financial viability of
contractors.
Gadkari further
emphasised the need for quality-based evaluation in project implementation,
noting that performance and durability must be prioritised alongside cost
considerations to ensure long-term value creation.
Advocating
sustainable solutions, he urged stakeholders to explore biofuels, biomass-based
fuels and other alternative energy sources to reduce reliance on conventional
fuels and lower operational costs. He also highlighted the growing relevance of
waste-to-wealth technologies, including the recycling of plastic waste and used
tyres in road construction.
Referring to
successful innovations, the Minister observed that the use of plastic waste in
road construction has already delivered encouraging results in projects
implemented in Nagpur, demonstrating the viability of sustainable materials in
infrastructure development.
He also called for
the adoption of futuristic technologies and research-driven solutions,
encouraging stronger collaboration among industry, research institutions and
academia to accelerate innovation in construction technologies.
Gadkari noted that Indian infrastructure companies have demonstrated their capabilities globally by executing major projects in countries such as Dubai, Qatar and several African nations. He added that maintaining high quality standards and avoiding shortcuts will further strengthen the global reputation of India’s construction industry.
The Minister also presented the 17th CIDC Vishwakarma Awards to the winners at the ceremony, congratulating them for their contributions to innovation and excellence in the construction and infrastructure sector. He expressed confidence that engineers, builders and industry professionals will play a pivotal role in building world-class infrastructure aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
