The Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC) hosted its Annual Partners Forum 2025 under the theme “Stronger Together, Transform Tomorrow”, gathering over 250 participants from government, industry, and academia in New Delhi.
Inaugurated by Dr. Hanif Qureshi (Ministry of Heavy Industries), Prof. T.G. Sitharam (AICTE), and Dr. Rodney Riviere (GIZ India), the event focused on PLI-driven innovation, electric and hydrogen mobility, and urgent upskilling in the automotive sector.
Dr. Qureshi emphasized India’s $240 billion automotive contribution and the transformative role of the ₹26,000 crore PLI scheme, with over 12 companies meeting the 50% domestic value addition target. He also highlighted the need to bridge the skill gap in EVs, hydrogen, and next-gen technologies.
Prof. Sitharam lauded ASDC’s role in shaping a future-ready workforce during India’s “Amrit Kaal”, encouraging greater adoption of robotics and AI skills in line with Viksit Bharat 2047 goals.
Dr. Suhas Deshmukh underscored the importance of NEP 2020 in embedding skilling within mainstream education. ASDC President F. R. Singhvi stressed the need for holistic education, incorporating technical expertise, communication, and human values.
Dr. Riviere offered a compelling view on AI as an enabler, not a threat, stating, “It’s man and machine together that will power the future.”
The event featured:
- MoUs with Hero MotoCorp, HCL Foundation, Lucas Indian Services, and Victora Foundation
- Convocation of female graduates under Project Saksham
- CSR recognition, and
- Two key panel discussions on NEP-led skilling and sustainable livelihoods.
The forum ended with a unified call to accelerate skilling pathways, align education with industry, and strengthen India’s role as a global talent powerhouse for the automotive and EV sectors.