India, Sept. 30 -- Union minister Nitin Gadkari said India's automotive industry has the potential to become the largest in the world, noting that the sector currently ranks third globally behind the US and China.

"This industry is the backbone of the economy. My dream is to make this industry number 1 in the world. Number 1 is US, second China. Third is India," Gadkari said.

Gadkari made the remarks at the inaugural HT Auto Leaderboard Awards 2026 that sought to recognise the vehicles, people and innovations shaping India's automotive industry.

He said India's automotive sector contributes over Rs.22.75 lakh crore to the economy, underscoring its importance to the country's economic growth and industrial ecosystem.

The awards also fe...