Auto Sector’s Problems ‘Minor’, Will Be Resolved Soon, Says Arjun Ram Meghwal

If the Narendra Modi government can extend a parliament session to abrogate Article 370, solving the problems of the auto sector is a “minor” thing, Union Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal said on Friday.

The auto slowdown in India entered its tenth month in August as retail auto sales fell 16.8 percent month-on-month and 10.8 percent on a yearly basis.

Addressing the annual convention of the Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India, the Minister of State for Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises said issues plaguing the auto industry will be "tackled and settled".

"When Lok Sabha (session) was going on and (decision on) Article 370 had not yet come up, many Members of Parliament used to come to me and ask me if session is being extended," Meghwal said, adding many MPs didn't want extension of the session.

"By extending the session, if we can remove an evil thing like the Article 370 then your problems are minor in nature, it will be resolved soon, don't worry," said Meghwal

The auto sector is seeking a reduction on Goods and Services Tax on vehicles to 18 percent from 28 percent to tide over the slowdown.

On this, Meghwal said, "We will bring your issues in front of the finance minister, prime minister, and when Modiji is aiming for $5 trillion economy, then all these issues will be tackled and settled. You don't worry," he said. "We are moving towards $5 trillion economy and if there is an issue in your sector, why won't we help in resolving that?"

The minister also said the government would also look into possibility of extending export incentives to the auto industry.