Ahead of Tesla chief Elon Musk’s visit to India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the world’s richest billionaire is a “supporter of India”.

In an interview with ANI broadcasted on Monday, PM Modi, when asked about the possibility of seeing Tesla cars and Starlink in India, remarked, “Elon Musk being a supporter of Modi is one thing, but basically he is a supporter of India.”

Tesla and SpaceX chief Elon Musk is set to visit India this month and is expected to unveil several investment proposals.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that he welcomes investment from across the globe, but it is crucial that the products reflect the essence of the country’s soil and engage its citizens in the manufacturing process.

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PM Modi stressed that whoever wishes to invest in India is encouraged to do so, but it is essential that the work is carried out by Indians to provide employment opportunities for the youth.

“I want investment to come in India because, in India, it doesn’t matter who has invested money, (but) the sweat put into the work must be of our own people. The product should have the essence of our soil so that our youth in the country will get employment opportunities,” PM Modi said.

Tesla is considering establishing an electric vehicle plant in India.

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According to media reports, Elon Musk is expected to discuss Starlink, SpaceX’s satellite business, during his meeting with the PM. Starlink could receive conditional approval for a satellite communications license in India, reported Economic Times. Conditions may include data routing restrictions and the requirement for a local partnership. Starlink currently serves over 26 lakh customers globally.

(Inputs from ANI)