Gandhinagar: In response to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's call to reduce dependence on fossil fuels, the Gujarat government has initiated the development of a comprehensive action plan aimed at lowering petrol and diesel consumption. Senior government sources indicated that the state's electric vehicle (EV) promotion policy is being overhauled, alongside efforts to strengthen charging infrastructure.
Current EV Policy and Challenges
The Gujarat State Electric Vehicle Policy, introduced in 2021, provides subsidies for purchasing two-, three-, and four-wheeler EVs across the state. Incentives include capital subsidies for setting up charging stations and exemption from electricity duty. Despite these measures, Gujarat has not ranked among the leading states in EV adoption so far.
Government Initiatives
Minister of State for Forest, Environment and Climate Change Pravin Mali stated that after the Prime Minister's appeal to cut fossil fuel usage, the government has begun drafting a fresh action plan along with a revised policy to promote EV adoption. "In coordination with all departments, we are framing a policy to encourage the use of EVs in both government and private sectors. Charging infrastructure continues to be a major challenge, and we are working on a plan to rapidly expand the EV charging network. In the coming days, government departments may also shift towards electric vehicles," the minister said.
As part of austerity measures, the government has issued guidelines to departments, directing them to curb fossil fuel use and promote electric mobility. Officials and elected representatives have been asked to retain only one official vehicle and deposit additional vehicles into the government pool.
Opposition Demands
The state unit of the Congress has written to the Chief Minister, seeking an increase in government subsidy on EV purchases to accelerate adoption. State spokesperson Hiren Banker, in the letter, pointed out that besides inadequate charging infrastructure, there is a need to provide additional incentives, particularly for women buyers.
EV Adoption Scenario in Gujarat
- Overall ranking in India Electric Mobility Index: 16th
- Ranking in charging infrastructure: 18th
- Rank in adoption of commercial EVs: 27th
- Rank in adoption of private EVs: 15th nationwide
- Rank in R&D in EV sector: 12th
- Rank in promotion of EV purchase and operation: 17th
(Source: India Electric Mobility Index)
