Incentive-based policy will only create demand in the short term: CAPT NS Mohan Ram

In our previous article, Vehicle recycling centres await clarity on scrappage policy, TURN OF SPEED provided an in-depth analysis of India’s existing vehicle recycling infrastructure and the need to implement the scrappage policy owing to the growing number of end-of-life (ELVs). In this interview, Captain NS Mohan Ram (Retd), former President, TVS Motor Company who authored Recycling End of Life Vehicles – With special focus on India and Developing Nations explains how end-of-life (ELV) automobiles is a complex issue to address in a country such as India because it involves many stakeholders with conflicting interests and perspectives.   TOS: Do you think this is the right time for the government to announce the vehicle scrapping policy, considering the ongoing slowdown in the automobile industry, which calls for some government intervention in favour of the sector?  CAPT. NS Mohan Ram (Retd): The main objectives of the Government regulations and scrapping policy are: 1. To ensure old vehicles are scrapped in an environmentally acceptable and hygienic manner.  2. To maximize recovery of usable parts and materials, saving energy and conserving raw materials.    3. To remove polluting old vehicles from the roads to improve air quality in the cities and towns.  4. To conserve foreign exchange currently expended for import of shredded scrap and other