Are There Really 14,329 Electric Buses on Indian Roads Under NEBP?
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Synopsis
Discover how India is transforming its public transport with the deployment of over 14,000 electric buses under the NEBP. The government continues to support this green initiative with financial programs aimed at expanding electric vehicle infrastructure across the nation.
Key Takeaways
- 14,329 electric buses are operational in India.
- NITI Aayog oversees the aggregation of demand for 50,000 e-buses.
- Government schemes like PM-eBus Sewa provide financial support.
- Funding for the PM E-Drive scheme remains at Rs 10,900 crore.
- The government aims to deploy 5,600 e-trucks through these initiatives.
New Delhi, Aug 20 (NationPress) India has successfully deployed 14,329 electric buses across its roads as part of the National Electric Bus Programme (NEBP), as reported to Parliament on Wednesday.
The NITI Aayog has tasked Convergence Energy Services Limited (CESL) with managing the demand aggregation for a total of 50,000 e-buses.
Several initiatives have been launched by the government, including "PM-eBus Sewa" and "PM E-Drive", to provide financial support for electric vehicles.
According to Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari, state transport corporations are encouraged to submit proposals for financial assistance; however, no funding has been allocated to the Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation in the past five years.
This month, the Central government also announced an extension of the PM E-Drive scheme for electric buses, ambulances, and trucks until March 2028, as indicated in a gazette notification from the Union Ministry of Heavy Industries.
The funding for this scheme remains at Rs 10,900 crore, with no additional funds to be allocated. The notification also states that incentives for electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers will conclude by March 2026.
The PM E-Drive initiative aims to promote decarbonisation, offering up to Rs 9.6 lakh in incentives for transitioning to electric trucks, targeting approximately 5,600 e-trucks nationwide.
In July, the government initiated a significant program to provide financial incentives for electric trucks, under the PM E-Drive initiative, with a maximum incentive of Rs 9.6 lakh per vehicle.
This represents the inaugural instance of the government extending direct support for electric trucks, with an aim to expedite the transition to cleaner, more efficient, and sustainable freight mobility.
The scheme is projected to facilitate the deployment of around 5,600 e-trucks throughout the country.
Point of View
The implementation of electric buses under the NEBP reflects India's dedication to sustainable development and reducing carbon emissions. While challenges remain, including funding allocations and infrastructure improvements, the commitment to cleaner public transport is a positive step towards a greener future.
NationPress
20/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the National Electric Bus Programme?
The National Electric Bus Programme (NEBP) is an initiative aimed at promoting the deployment of electric buses across India to reduce carbon emissions and improve air quality.
How many electric buses are currently operational in India?
As of now, there are 14,329 electric buses operational under the National Electric Bus Programme.
What financial assistance is available for electric vehicles?
The government has introduced schemes such as PM-eBus Sewa and PM E-Drive, which provide financial incentives for electric vehicles, including buses.
What is the PM E-Drive scheme?
The PM E-Drive scheme offers financial incentives for the purchase of electric vehicles, including buses and trucks, aimed at promoting the transition to electric mobility.
When will the PM E-Drive scheme end?
The PM E-Drive scheme has been extended and is now set to conclude in March 2028.
