‘PM’s fuel preservation call can accelerate India’s clean energy shift': Mahindra Group MD & CEO Anish Shah

Mahindra Group CEO & MD Anish Shah has endorsed Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent appeal for fuel conservation and energy security, saying the current global turmoil presents India with an opportunity to fast-track its transition towards cleaner and more efficient energy systems.

His comments come in the backdrop of Prime Minister Modi’s May 10 address, where he urged citizens, businesses and institutions to adopt austere measures to curb fuel consumption amid rising geopolitical tensions and supply disruptions linked to the ongoing West Asia crisis. The Prime Minister had stressed the need for responsible energy usage, reduced dependence on imported fossil fuels and stronger national preparedness against external shocks.

“We welcome the Hon’ble Prime Minister’s call for greater awareness and collective action towards fuel preservation and energy security,” Shah said. “At a time when the world is navigating heightened energy volatility, these measures underscore the importance of responsible consumption and long-term sustainability.”

India imports over 85 per cent of its crude oil requirements, leaving the economy exposed to fluctuations in global oil prices during geopolitical conflicts. Industry leaders believe the Centre’s renewed focus on fuel efficiency and energy discipline could further accelerate the country’s clean mobility and renewable energy ambitions.

“As a group with a strong presence across mobility, energy, and sustainability, Mahindra remains committed to advancing electrification, investing in renewable energy solutions, and driving innovations that reduce dependence on fossil fuels,” Shah added.

The Mahindra Group chief also underlined India’s broader economic opportunity amid rising global uncertainty. In the company’s Integrated Annual Report 2024-25, Shah said India is uniquely positioned to emerge as a global manufacturing powerhouse despite the volatile geopolitical and economic environment.

“With its growing infrastructure, young workforce, and favourable policies, India’s opportunity to lead the world in manufacturing has never been greater,” he said.

Shah noted that the 80-year-old Mahindra Group continues to remain “anchored in its values and steadfast in its commitment to performance, even amid global uncertainty.”

“Our growth is propelled by the India story … we operate in 70% of the country’s GDP and we are aligned with the opportunities this dynamic economy offers,” he added.

He stated that India’s expanding infrastructure base, policy support for manufacturing and large domestic consumption market place the country in a strong position to benefit from shifting global supply chains, even as companies worldwide recalibrate strategies amid geopolitical disruptions and economic uncertainty across major regions.