Government extends PM E-DRIVE Scheme by two years till March 2028

In News:

Government Extends ₹10,900-crore PM E-DRIVE Scheme for Electric Buses, Ambulances, and Trucks till March 2028


UPSC Analysis:

  • Context:
    The Government of India has extended the PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) Scheme by two years, shifting the validity from March 2026 to March 2028 for certain categories of vehicles.
  • Key Provisions:
    • Applicable to electric buses, e-ambulances, and e-trucks till March 2028.
    • E-2W, e-rickshaws, e-carts, and e-3W (L5) remain eligible only till March 31, 2026.
    • Scheme outlay: ₹10,900 crore (fund-limited; first-come, first-served basis).
    • If funds exhaust before the terminal date, the scheme/sub-components will close early.
  • Significance:
    • Boosts electric mobility in public transport and essential services.
    • Contributes to emission reduction and air quality improvement in Indian cities.
    • Encourages EV adoption in high-impact sectors.

      Updated – August 08, 2025 | 11:27 PM IST | The Hindu