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INDIA, 26 June 2023: The Punjab government has announced an INR 300 crore incentive scheme to promote the adoption of electric vehicles (EV) in the state. The scheme will cover electric two-wheelers, e-cycles, e-rickshaws, e-autos, and electric light commercial vehicles.
The incentives will be in the form of subsidies, tax breaks, and exemptions. For example, the government will offer a subsidy of INR 5,000 on the purchase of an electric two-wheeler. It will also exempt EVs from registration fees and road tax.
Dedicated EV fund
The government is also planning to set up a dedicated EV fund to help finance the purchase of EVs. The fund will be managed by the Punjab State Power Corporation Ltd (PSPCL).
The government is taking these steps to reduce pollution and promote sustainable transportation in the state. Punjab is one of the most polluted states in India, and EVs are a cleaner alternative to conventional fuel-powered vehicles.
Buses & charging stations
The government is also working to create a network of EV charging stations across the state. The PSPCL and the Punjab Energy Development Agency (PEDA) have been directed to prepare a report within a month on the setting up of EV charging stations.
The government is also planning to introduce electric buses in the state. The secretary, transport and director, state transport, have been directed to expedite the process of scrapping government buses older than 15 years and replacing them with electric buses.
The government’s EV incentive scheme is a welcome step. It will help to make EVs more affordable and accessible to people in Punjab. The government’s other initiatives, such as the setting up of EV charging stations and the introduction of electric buses, will also help to promote the adoption of EVs in the state.
