Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla, has reportedly delayed his highly anticipated trip to India, according to the sources. The immediate reasons for the postponement remain unknown.
Initially scheduled for April 21 and 22, Musk’s visit was intended for meetings with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and to unveil plans for Tesla’s entry into the Indian market. Earlier this month, Musk had announced his upcoming visit to India and his meeting with PM Modi, generating significant global interest.
Speculation arose that Musk might propose establishing Tesla manufacturing facilities in India, particularly after his tweet coincided with a government notification regarding a new electric vehicle manufacturing policy offering duty concessions to companies committing to manufacture in India.
Originally planned for a 48-hour stay, Musk was expected to meet with the PM, space startups, and business leaders, including engagements at Bharat Mandapam, an exhibition hall.
However, uncertainty looms over the finalization of the Starlink agreement during this trip, pending approval from India’s Ministry of Home Affairs.
The timing of Musk’s visit postponement coincides with upcoming major elections in India, where Modi is anticipated to secure victory. With the model code of conduct in effect, a formal announcement regarding Starlink might be delayed, according to Business Today.
Musk had previously met Modi in June last year during the PM’s visit to the US, during which Musk expressed confidence in Tesla’s imminent entry into the Indian market and revealed plans for his 2024 visit to India.