Bihar's Fancy Number Plates Generate Rs 6 Crore in Revenue from E-Auctions
The state transport department in Bihar has witnessed a significant surge in revenue, amassing approximately Rs 6 crore through the issuance of fancy VIP vehicle registration numbers over a two-month period. From December 1 to February 13, a total of 4,117 such numbers were allocated, highlighting a growing trend among vehicle owners for personalized plates.
Patna Leads the Way in High-Value Bids
State Transport Minister Shrawan Kumar announced on Saturday that Patna has emerged as the frontrunner in the e-auction of fancy and custom registration numbers. Residents of the capital city spent a staggering Rs 2.46 crore to secure their preferred numbers, demonstrating the highest level of interest across the state. Following Patna, Muzaffarpur and Gaya districts recorded substantial revenues of Rs 52.17 lakh and Rs 41 lakh, respectively, indicating widespread appeal for these exclusive plates.
In contrast, districts like Khagaria and Sheohar showed comparatively lower engagement, with spending amounts of Rs 93,500 and Rs 52,000. This disparity underscores the varying demand patterns across different regions of Bihar.
Revenue Breakdown and Auction Process
Minister Kumar detailed that the total revenue generated from these e-auctions reached Rs 5.95 crore, with vehicle owners actively participating to acquire their desired registration numbers. To streamline the process, the department has introduced an online booking system, making it more convenient for applicants to bid and obtain fancy numbers without physical hassles.
According to transport department officials, VIP numbers are systematically categorized into five groups: A, B, C, D, and E. The most sought-after numbers, such as 0001, 0003, 0005, 0007, and 0009, fall under the A category and are priced at Rs 1 lakh each. For commercial vehicles, the cost is set at Rs 35,000. In instances where multiple applicants vie for the same registration number, the e-auction process ensures that it is allotted to the highest bidder, promoting a fair and transparent allocation system.
Regional Spending Patterns and Future Implications
Beyond the top three districts, Purnia also contributed significantly to the revenue pool, with residents bidding a total of Rs 33.53 lakh during the same period. This widespread participation reflects a broader cultural shift towards valuing personalized vehicle identifiers as status symbols or lucky charms.
The success of this initiative not only boosts state coffers but also highlights the effectiveness of digital platforms in modernizing administrative services. As demand continues to grow, the transport department may consider expanding the range of available numbers or adjusting pricing strategies to maximize revenue while catering to public interest.
