Moneycontrol Pro Exclusive: R C Bhargava on the auto industry recovery, a GST rate cut and the road ahead for Maruti Suzuki

Source: Maruti Suzuki

Notwithstanding the recent rise in retail sales of two-wheelers and cars, it is increasingly clear that the auto industry is in dire state, in India and globally. Demand was slowing down even before COVID-19 struck and the pandemic has only made things worse.

“The pandemic has reduced the purchasing power of people as incomes have gone down. Something needs to be done urgently to offset this negative impact and increase demand. This can only happen if the cost of doing business goes down and we focus on better manufacturing processes to ensure quality," says R C Bhargava, chairman of Maruti Suzuki India Ltd.

In a free-wheeling interview with Vatsala Kamat, the chairman of Maruti Suzuki India talks about the prospects for a rapid recovery, whether government help is needed, the future of auto industry, the road ahead for his own company and much more.

To access the complete interview, which is exclusive to MC Pro subscribers, click here.