Union Minister Nitin Gadkari Inaugurates BAJA SAEINDIA 2025, Flags Off World’s First hCNG BAJA Buggy

BAJA SAEINDIA 2025, a transformative platform for engineering students, was inaugurated at the National Automotive Test Tracks (NATRAX) facility in Pithampur, near Indore, by Nitin Gadkari, the Minister for Road Transport and Highways.

As per the firm's statement, since its inception in 2007, BAJA SAEINDIA has evolved into a prestigious multi-category event with participation from engineering students across the country. The event features various categories, including mBAJA (IC engine-powered), eBAJA (electric), hBAJA (Hydrogen-CNG hybrid), and aBAJA (autonomous vehicles). This year’s theme, 'Fusion 4 Future,'underscores the core pillars of Technology, Diversity, Sustainability, and Connectivity, reflecting BAJA SAEINDIA’s commitment to preparing students for the future of mobility.

Gadkari emphasised the role of the automotive sector in India's economic growth. He discussed the importance of alternative fuels, such as hydrogen, biofuels, and CNG, and their potential to drive sustainable mobility solutions. Gadkari also highlighted the adoption of eco-friendly innovations like bamboo crash barriers, which have been successfully tested and implemented on Indian highways.

As per the statement, the event witnessed a historic moment when Gadkari flagged off the world's first Hydrogen-CNG (HCNG) BAJA buggy, developed by Team Vijayrath from Indore Institute of Science and Technology. Powered by a blend of hydrogen and CNG, this breakthrough aligns with India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission and marks a significant step towards clean energy solutions in the automotive sector.

The five-day event (January 8-12) also features technical inspections, static evaluations, and dynamic events, with endurance tests planned for the upcoming days.

Meanwhile, Dr. Pawan Goenka, the former Managing Director of Mahindra & Mahindra, who could not attend the event, expressed his thanks in his video message and said, "I thank the Minister for his continuous support to the Indian automotive industry. The Minister has always urged industry players to focus on quality and technology, working towards making India the leading country in the auto sector within the next 3-5 years."

BAJA SAEINDIA continues to be a platform for innovation, where students test their skills in engineering and problem-solving while contributing to India’s push towards sustainable mobility.