Gadkari Calls Out Cement and Steel Cartels, Pushes for Cheaper Alternatives

Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari raises a red flag over the growing stranglehold of cartels in India’s two critical industries – steel and cement. Speaking on Tuesday at IECRP 2025, an exhibition, the minister said just a handful of players govern these sectors with a high tendency to dictate terms, thereby stopping or slowing down infrastructural development at will.

“Steel and cement industries are in the hands of a few people. They always decide the rates. Their cartelism is a big problem for the country,” Gadkari remarked, stressing the need for cost-effective alternatives to break their monopoly.

One such alternative, according to the minister, is fiber-reinforced plastic (FRP). Highlighting its potential across multiple sectors, including infrastructure, aviation, shipping, and metro rail, Gadkari urged FRP manufacturers to reduce their prices by 20-25% compared to steel. He stressed that this price reduction, combined with domestic production and innovation in raw material usage, could make FRP a game-changer for the industry.

“To create alternative material is my important interest to support you,” he assured the stakeholders of the FRP pledging full government support to help this sector thrive.

Gadkari also announced larger plans for slashing production costs. He envisions these to be brought down from the present ₹300 per kg to just $1 per kg. Such a breakthrough, he said, would position India as a global energy exporter and make a tremendous contribution toward the country’s economic growth.

Furthermore, the minister reiterated his commitment to transforming India into the world’s largest automobile hub within the next five years, overtaking its current third position.

Gadkari’s call to action highlights the need for innovative and competitive solutions to counter monopolistic practices in key industries while pushing India towards self-reliance and global leadership in energy and manufacturing.