The 12th session of India-Japan Joint Working Group (JWG) on Roads and Road Transportation Sector took place on 15th October 2026 at Bharat Mandapam, New Delhi. Organised by the India’s Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, the meeting brought together representatives from the Governments of India and Japan, alongside relevant institutions and industry stakeholders.
The session provided a platform for strengthening bilateral cooperation in road infrastructure, with discussions centred on advanced construction technologies, tunnel and bridge engineering, sustainable infrastructure development, and the integration of new and digital technologies into road management. Participants exchanged technical knowledge, professional experience and best practices while examining opportunities to strengthen collaboration across the planning, construction, operation and maintenance of road infrastructure in both countries.
Alignment With Viksit Bharat @2047 and Sustainable Infrastructure
The discussions were aligned with the vision of Viksit Bharat @2047 articulated by Narendra Modi, Prime Minister, which envisages India becoming a developed nation by the centenary of its Independence. The vision supports economic growth, improved connectivity, greater logistics efficiency and wider access to opportunities across regions.
Nitin Gadkari, India’s Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, has emphasised the development of world-class, safe, efficient, sustainable and technology-driven road infrastructure, including bridges & tunnels, to support India’s economic growth and improve the convenience and quality of life of its citizens. Under whole of Government approval, the Ministry of Railway and Ministry of Power also participated actively in the meeting, bringing additional government representation to the discussions on road and transport infrastructure development.
Technical Exchanges Reinforce Bilateral Collaboration
Experts and representatives from Indian and Japanese technical institutions and industry contributed to the session through technical presentations and interactive question-and-answer sessions. These exchanges enabled participants to share their experiences and perspectives on adopting innovative technologies and sustainable practices to improve the quality, efficiency and management of road infrastructure.
The discussions also explored how technical expertise and cooperation could support improvements throughout the development and maintenance of road networks. The meeting reaffirmed the significance of India-Japan cooperation in advancing road and transport infrastructure through technological innovation, sustainable construction practices and the exchange of technical expertise. By facilitating dialogue between government representatives, technical institutions and industry stakeholders, the 12th session of the Joint Working Group underscored the role of bilateral engagement in exploring approaches to infrastructure planning, construction, operation and maintenance. The meeting also reinforced the shared emphasis on technology-driven development and sustainable practices in strengthening road infrastructure.
