EV Charging and Local Road Quality Emerge as Top Infrastructure Priorities: Ipsos

Electric vehicle charging stations and local road networks have emerged as leading investment priorities for Indian citizens, according to the latest Ipsos-GIIA Global Infrastructure Index 2026.

The 29-country study reveals that 44% of Indian respondents identify EV charging infrastructure as a primary national investment priority, more than double the global country average of 21%. An identical 44% prioritized the development and upkeep of the local road network, outpacing demand for major highways and motorways, which stood at 33%.

India Ranks Second Globally for Infrastructure Satisfaction

Overall, 69% of Indians surveyed expressed satisfaction with the country's national infrastructure, ranking India second globally behind Singapore (74%) and well above the global average of 38%. However, expectations around asset longevity remain pronounced: 79% of Indian respondents agreed that maintaining and repairing existing infrastructure is as vital as constructing new projects.

Ipsos India CEO on Water, Clean Energy and Digital Infrastructure Priorities

"What stands out is how closely citizens' priorities align with India's long-term development agenda," said Suresh Ramalingam, Chief Executive Officer of Ipsos India. "The strongest support is for investments in water infrastructure, clean energy and digital infrastructure, areas that are increasingly shaping the country's future growth trajectory. Importantly, citizens are not asking policymakers to choose between building new assets and maintaining existing ones. They expect both."

Public Support Grows for Private-Sector Infrastructure Investment

The survey also indicates substantial public appetite for private-sector involvement in funding and operational delivery. Approximately 80% of respondents in India expressed comfort with private companies investing in infrastructure to achieve necessary enhancements, compared to a 70% global average. Furthermore, 64% indicated support for increased infrastructure spending even if funded through higher taxes or consumer fees, against a 39% global baseline.

About the Ipsos-GIIA Global Infrastructure Index 2026

Conducted between April 24 and May 8, 2026, across 21,521 adults worldwide, the index reflects responses from urban and digitally connected segments within India, highlighting consumer alignment with the automotive sector's electrification transition and urban mobility requirements.