Eknath Shinde Proposes Vintage Car Restoration Industry in Thane |

Deputy CM Eknath Shinde suggests exploring the feasibility of a foreign and vintage automobile restoration industry in Thane, highlighting potential employment and export benefits

THANE: Deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde said the state could analyse the feasibility of starting a restoration industry for foreign and vintage automobiles and motorcycles in Thane, considering its developmental and employment prospects.
Shinde was addressing attendees in the presence of Gautam Singhania, chairman and managing director,Raymond group at the Autofest 2025 exhibition in Thane where over 580 vintage and luxury automobiles and motorcycles were showcased.
“There is substantial potential for establishing an industry specialising in foreign automobile restoration. I have requested transport minister Pratap Sarnaik to assess the viability and devise a policy and seek assistance from the central government to establish the industry in Thane. This initiative would not merely generate employment for local youth but additionally provide practical training opportunities. This would also enhance export volumes and generate foreign revenue,” he stated.
Shinde said the cumulative value of vehicles on display at the fest would exceed Rs 1000 cr, and thanked the Singhania group for organising such exhibitions in the city where Thane residents could participate and witness these exceptional vehicles.
Several of these automobiles are over 100-120 years old, said Shinde, highlighting how Thane was now in the list of elite cities boasting of metro infrastructure and wide highways and roads capable of even accommodating emergency aircraft landings.