Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister, declared on Monday, December 22, 2025, that knowledge is the most potent instrument for India to achieve its goal of becoming a USD 5 trillion economy and the world's third-largest economy.

Gadkari spoke at an event at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Bombay, emphasizing that a country's future is determined by the futuristic technology it possesses. He praised the IITs and their students for their significant contributions to the country's development and progress. He stated that the government frequently turns to the IITs for solutions when faced with challenges, and the solutions provided are widely accepted due to the high credibility of the institutions. Gadkari referred to the IITs as the "capital of knowledge".

Gadkari emphasized that while resources and technologies are important for a country's progress, futuristic technology and knowledge are even more critical. He reiterated Prime Minister Narendra Modi's goal of making India a USD 5 trillion economy and the world's third-largest.

Gadkari has consistently emphasized the importance of infrastructure development, alternative fuels, and reducing logistical costs to achieve this economic vision. He has highlighted the automobile sector's potential, noting India has already surpassed Japan to become the world's third-largest automobile market. Gadkari envisions India becoming the leader in automobile manufacturing within five years through advancements in research, innovation, and the adoption of alternative fuels.

Gadkari also pointed out the importance of reducing import dependency through research in material sciences and technology. He has also stressed the need for balanced growth across agriculture, manufacturing and service sectors and has urged industry to prioritize rural and agricultural development to strengthen the economy and curb migration.

Gadkari has also highlighted the role of infrastructure development in economic growth, noting that every ₹100 invested in national highways contributes ₹321 to the GDP. He also mentioned financial innovations like Infrastructure Investment Trust (InvIT) and Toll-Operate-Transfer (TOT) models that have mobilized significant funds through capital markets.