Relevance: TGPSC: Telangana History, Epigraphy, Cultural Heritage, Digital Archives
For Prelims:
- BharatSHRI Portal | Archaeological Survey of India | Epigraphy | Estampage | Satavahana Period
For Mains:
- Digital heritage preservation | Primary historical sources | Cultural documentation | Knowledge democratisation | Public access to archives
Why in News?
The Archaeological Survey of India has launched the Bharat Shared Repository of Inscriptions, known as BharatSHRI, to provide free online access to digitised epigraphical records. The portal currently hosts 13,986 metadata records, 9,967 transcripts and 10,116 digitised estampages of inscriptions. Around 6,000 inscriptions from Telangana, dating from the Satavahana period to the medieval era, are also being digitised.
What is BharatSHRI Portal?
- BharatSHRI stands for Bharat Shared Repository of Inscriptions.
- It is a digital platform launched by the Archaeological Survey of India to provide online access to India’s epigraphical records.
The portal allows:
- researchers
- scholars
- students
- historians
- the general public
to access digitised inscriptions free of cost.
Earlier, researchers often had to visit the ASI office at Mysore to consult epigraphical records. BharatSHRI reduces this physical access barrier by making records available online.
Key Features of BharatSHRI Portal
| Feature | Details |
| Launching Institution | Archaeological Survey of India |
| Full Name | Bharat Shared Repository of Inscriptions |
| Main Purpose | Free digital access to inscriptions |
| Metadata Records | 13,986 |
| Transcripts | 9,967 |
| Digitised Estampages | 10,116 |
| Future Target | More than 80,000 inscriptions to be uploaded |
| Telangana Inscriptions | Around 6,000 being digitised |
| Telangana Period Covered | From Satavahana period to medieval era |
What are Inscriptions?
- Inscriptions are writings engraved on durable materials such as stone, metal, pillars, temple walls, copper plates and rocks.
- They are considered first-hand historical sources because they come directly from the period they describe.
- They provide information about rulers, administration, grants, religion, society, economy, language and culture.
- Inscriptions are especially useful for reconstructing ancient and medieval Indian history.
What is Epigraphy?
- Epigraphy is the study of inscriptions.
- It includes reading, interpreting, dating and analysing inscriptions.
- Epigraphy helps historians understand scripts, languages, political events, social practices and cultural developments.
- It is a major source for studying dynasties, temples, land grants, revenue systems and regional histories.
What are Estampages?
- Estampage is an impression or copy of an inscription taken on paper.
- It helps preserve the text of an inscription without damaging the original surface.
- Estampages are useful when original inscriptions are located in remote areas, damaged sites or protected monuments.
- Digitised estampages allow scholars to study inscriptions from anywhere.
Telangana and BharatSHRI
- Around 6,000 inscriptions from Telangana are being digitised under the BharatSHRI initiative.
- These inscriptions cover a long historical period, beginning from the Satavahana period and extending into the medieval era.
This is important because Telangana has a rich epigraphical tradition linked with:
- Satavahanas
- Chalukyas
- Kakatiyas
- temple inscriptions
- land grants
- local administration
- irrigation structures
- religious endowments
- regional language and script development
Some Telangana inscriptions have already been made available on the portal, while others will be uploaded in phases.
Conclusion
The launch of BharatSHRI is an important step in making India’s historical sources more accessible, transparent and research-friendly. Inscriptions are among the most reliable sources for reconstructing India’s past, especially political, social, cultural and regional history. By digitising thousands of inscriptions, transcripts and estampages, ASI is not only preserving heritage but also democratising access to knowledge. The success of the portal will depend on accuracy, phased expansion, translations, public awareness and continued protection of original inscription sites.
CARE MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding BharatSHRI Portal:
- It has been launched by the Archaeological Survey of India.
- It provides digital access to epigraphical records.
- It includes metadata records, transcripts and digitised estampages.
- It is a paid portal meant only for ASI officials.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 4 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
Explanation
Statements 1, 2 and 3 are correct. BharatSHRI is an ASI portal that provides access to epigraphical records, including metadata, transcripts and digitised estampages.
Statement 4 is incorrect because the portal provides free access and is meant for researchers, scholars and the general public.
FAQs
Q1. What is the BharatSHRI Portal?
Answer: BharatSHRI (Bharat Shared Repository of Inscriptions) is a digital platform that provides free online access to India’s digitised inscriptions, transcripts, and estampages.
Q2. Who launched the BharatSHRI Portal?
Answer: The BharatSHRI Portal was launched by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) to preserve and share India’s epigraphical heritage.
Q3. What is an inscription?
Answer: An inscription is a text engraved on durable materials such as stone, metal, copper plates, pillars, or temple walls, serving as a primary historical source.
Q4. What is epigraphy?
Answer: Epigraphy is the study and interpretation of inscriptions to understand ancient history, languages, scripts, administration, and culture.
Q5. Why are Telangana’s inscriptions significant in the BharatSHRI Portal?
Answer: Around 6,000 inscriptions from Telangana, dating from the Satavahana period to the medieval era, are being digitised, highlighting the state’s rich historical and cultural heritage.
Relevance: UPSC GS Paper III: Mobilisation of Resources, Energy Security, Sustainable Development, Industrial Policy, Strategic Technologies
For Prelims:
- Critical Minerals | Rare Earth Elements | National Critical Mineral Mission | KABIL | Lithium
For Mains:
- Mineral security | Clean energy transition | Strategic autonomy | Supply chain resilience | Resource geopolitics
Why in News?
Critical minerals have moved from being a resource policy issue to becoming a major question of industrial strategy, energy security and national security. Minerals such as lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite, copper and rare earth elements are essential for electric vehicles, battery storage, renewable energy, semiconductors, defence systems and advanced manufacturing.As decarbonisation and digitalisation expand, mineral security is becoming as important as oil security was in the 20th century. India is therefore strengthening its domestic exploration, overseas acquisition, processing capacity, recycling and international partnerships.
What are Critical Minerals?
Critical minerals are non-fuel metallic or non-metallic minerals that are essential for modern technologies but face high supply risks.
They are called critical because any disruption in their supply can affect:
- clean energy transition
- electric mobility
- semiconductor manufacturing
- defence production
- renewable energy storage
- artificial intelligence and advanced electronics
- industrial competitiveness
- national security
There is no single global definition of critical minerals. Each country identifies them based on its own economic needs, supply risks and strategic priorities.
India has identified 30 critical minerals, including lithium, cobalt, nickel, graphite, copper and rare earth elements.
Why Critical Minerals are Strategically Important?
1. Foundation of Clean Energy Transition
Critical minerals are central to India’s clean energy goals.
- Lithium, cobalt and nickel: used in lithium-ion batteries
- Copper: used in power systems, transmission and electric vehicles
- Graphite: used in battery anodes
- Rare earth elements: used in permanent magnets for wind turbines and electric motors
- Silicon, tellurium, indium and gallium: used in solar photovoltaic cells
As India expands solar power, wind energy, battery storage and electric mobility, demand for these minerals will rise sharply.
2. Essential for Advanced Manufacturing
Critical minerals are inputs for:
- semiconductors
- artificial intelligence hardware
- advanced electronics
- telecommunications
- aerospace systems
- precision manufacturing
Thus, critical mineral availability directly affects India’s ambitions in Make in India, semiconductor manufacturing and advanced industrialisation.
3. Defence and National Security Importance
Defence systems require high-purity minerals and rare earth magnets for:
- missiles
- jet engines
- radar systems
- drones
- satellites
- AI-enabled military hardware
Therefore, critical mineral dependence can create strategic vulnerability.
4. Link with Sustainable Development Goals
Critical minerals support:
- SDG 7: Affordable and Clean Energy
- SDG 9: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- SDG 13: Climate Action
However, mineral extraction must be sustainable, as mining can affect water, biodiversity, labour rights and local communities.
Global Supply Chain Concentration
- The global supply of critical minerals is highly concentrated.
- For copper, lithium, nickel, cobalt, graphite and rare earth elements, the average market share of the top three refining countries increased from around 82% in 2020 to 86% in 2024.
- China dominates global processing. It is the leading refiner in 19 out of 20 strategic minerals, with an average market share of about 70%.
China’s Processing Dominance
Mineral / Product | China’s Approximate Processing Share |
Rare earths | Over 90% |
Graphite | Over 90% |
Cobalt | Nearly 75% |
Lithium chemicals | Around 70% |
This makes critical minerals not merely commercial commodities, but tools of geopolitical influence.
Geopolitical Risks in Critical Minerals
1. Export Controls and Supply Weaponisation
China’s rare earth export controls announced in 2025 created concerns across energy, automotive, defence, aerospace, artificial intelligence and semiconductor sectors.
This shows how mineral supply chains can be used as geopolitical instruments.
2. Future Supply Shortfalls
Global clean energy transitions will require minerals beyond current production levels.
- The copper project pipeline indicates a possible 30% supply shortfall by 2035.
- Lithium may remain better supplied in the near term, but rising demand could push it into deficit by the 2030s.
- Rare earth demand will rise with wind power, electronics and magnets.
3. Friendshoring and Strategic Alliances
Major economies are trying to reduce dependence on concentrated suppliers.
- The European Union Critical Raw Materials Act sets 2030 targets of:
- 10% domestic extraction
- 40% processing
- 25% recycling
- not more than 65% dependence on a single country
- The United States is building diversified supply chains through strategic partnerships.
- Countries are adopting China+1 and trusted-partner strategies.
India’s Critical Mineral Demand and Domestic Potential
- India’s clean energy and manufacturing ambitions are highly mineral intensive.
- Under a net zero scenario, India’s cumulative demand for critical energy transition minerals could reach around 169 million tonnes by 2070, about 51% higher than under a current policy pathway.
Domestic Potential
India has reserves or occurrences of several critical minerals.
Mineral | Domestic Potential / Occurrence |
Cobalt | Around 44.9 million tonnes |
Copper | Around 163.9 million tonnes |
Graphite | Around 211.6 million tonnes |
Nickel | Around 189 million tonnes |
Rare Earth Elements | Monazite deposits and rare earth oxides, especially in coastal and hard-rock regions |
Lithium | Discovered in parts of Karnataka and Jammu & Kashmir |
India also has rare earth potential in States such as Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Odisha and Kerala, while monazite sands in Kerala are rich in rare earth elements.
Why Reserves Alone Do Not Ensure Security
India has domestic mineral potential, but reserves have not yet translated into supply security.
Key Gaps
- India remains import dependent for lithium, cobalt and nickel.
- Graphite and rare earth processing remain vulnerable to China-dominated supply chains.
- India lacks adequate high-purity processing and refining capacity.
- Much of the value addition lies in the midstream stage: refining, separation, purification and chemical processing.
Thus, the major challenge is not only mining, but building a complete mine-to-market value chain.
India’s Major Policy Initiatives
1. National Critical Mineral Mission
The National Critical Mineral Mission aims to develop the full critical mineral value chain.
It focuses on:
- exploration
- mining
- processing
- recycling
- research and development
- human resource development
- strategic stockpiling
Major Targets
- 1,200 domestic exploration projects by 2030–31
- production of at least 15 critical minerals
- acquisition of 50 overseas mining assets by Indian companies
- creation of recycling capacity for critical minerals
- promotion of patents and Centres of Excellence
2. Identification of 30 Critical Minerals
India has identified 30 critical minerals to guide policy planning, investment and supply chain security.
3. MMDR Act Amendment, 2023
The Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 was amended in 2023 to empower the Central Government to auction several identified critical minerals. This is expected to improve private participation and domestic production.
4. Overseas Mineral Acquisition through KABIL
Khanij Bidesh India Limited (KABIL) has secured 15,703 hectares in Argentina’s Catamarca province for lithium exploration.
This reflects India’s effort to secure overseas resources in lithium-rich regions.
5. Rare Earth Corridors
The 2026–27 Budget proposed rare earth corridors in:
- Odisha
- Kerala
- Andhra Pradesh
- Tamil Nadu
These corridors can support rare earth processing, value addition and industrial clustering.
6. India–U.S. Critical Minerals Framework
The India–U.S. critical minerals and rare earths framework signed in May 2026 provides a diplomatic lever for building resilient and diversified supply chains.
7. Quad and Trusted Supply Chains
India is also part of wider strategic conversations with partners such as the U.S., Australia and Japan to develop secure and diversified mineral supply chains.
8. PLI Schemes and Manufacturing Linkages
India’s PLI schemes for Advanced Chemistry Cell batteries, solar PV modules, electronics and semiconductors are linked to critical mineral security because these sectors depend heavily on mineral inputs.
Challenges to India’s Critical Mineral Security
1. Heavy Import Dependence
India is highly dependent on imports for lithium, cobalt and nickel. Rare earth magnets and high-purity processed products are also vulnerable to external supply disruptions.
2. Processing and Refining Gap
India’s biggest weakness lies in the midstream stage. It lacks adequate facilities for:
- battery-grade lithium chemicals
- high-purity graphite
- rare earth separation
- advanced smelting
- chemical refining
- high-purity mineral inputs
Without processing capability, domestic reserves alone cannot create strategic autonomy.
3. China’s Midstream Monopoly
China’s dominance in rare earths, graphite, cobalt and lithium processing exposes India to price shocks, export controls and supply disruption.
4. Shallow Exploration
India’s exploration is still relatively shallow. Critical minerals often require advanced methods such as:
- airborne geophysical surveys
- hyperspectral mapping
- geochemical surveys
- AI-based geological modelling
- deep-seated exploration
5. Regulatory and Clearance Delays
Mining projects often face delays due to environmental, forest and land-related approvals.
6. Weak Private Participation
Critical mineral exploration and refining require high-risk, long-term capital. India still lacks a strong ecosystem of junior mining companies and risk-sharing mechanisms.
7. Remote Region Project Economics
Many deposits are located in remote areas with weak logistics, power and water infrastructure, reducing commercial viability.
8. Weak Circular Economy
Recycling of e-waste, lithium-ion batteries, end-of-life vehicles, mine tailings, fly ash and red mud remains limited due to weak collection systems and technology gaps.
9. Absence of Strategic Stockpiles
Unlike strategic petroleum reserves, India does not yet have a comprehensive strategic reserve for critical minerals.
Global Approaches to Critical Mineral Security
Country / Bloc | Approach |
China | Dominates mining, refining, processing and exports; uses minerals as geoeconomic leverage |
United States | De-risks supply chains through alliances, friendshoring and overseas investments |
European Union | Builds strategic autonomy through domestic extraction, processing, recycling and reduced dependence |
Australia | Positions itself as a trusted supplier while expanding downstream processing |
Japan | Uses resource diplomacy, overseas assets, long-term contracts and stockpiles |
India | Moving towards a mine-to-market strategy using exploration, overseas acquisition, processing and partnerships |
Way Forward for India
1. Make Processing a National Priority
India must build refining, separation, purification and chemical processing capacity. Mineral processing parks and targeted incentives can help create value-added supply chains.
2. Strengthen Domestic Exploration
India should expand deep-seated exploration using AI, 3D geological modelling, airborne surveys and advanced geophysical methods.
3. Attract Private Capital
Private investment needs:
- reliable geological data
- predictable approvals
- risk-sharing mechanisms
- faster clearances
- supportive infrastructure
4. Diversify Overseas Supply
India should secure long-term supplies through KABIL and partnerships with countries such as Australia, Argentina, Chile, Namibia and African nations.
5. Create Strategic Mineral Stockpiles
India should establish strategic reserves for minerals essential to batteries, defence, semiconductors and renewable energy.
6. Scale Recycling and Urban Mining
Recycling should be integrated into supply planning. India must strengthen recovery from:
- e-waste
- lithium-ion batteries
- end-of-life vehicles
- mine tailings
- fly ash
- red mud
7. Build Research and Innovation Ecosystem
India needs applied R&D in metallurgy, mineral separation, battery chemistry, rare earth magnets and recycling technologies.
8. Adopt a National Critical Minerals Strategy
A comprehensive strategy should:
- define mineral-specific risk thresholds
- set measurable milestones
- coordinate ministries and industry
- integrate recycling and stockpiling
- monitor global supply risks
- align minerals with energy, defence and industrial policy
Conclusion
Critical minerals will define India’s energy transition, industrial competitiveness and strategic autonomy. India has mineral potential, policy momentum and growing international partnerships, but the real challenge lies in execution. Domestic exploration must be converted into production, and reserves must be converted into high-purity processing capability. India’s future strength will depend not only on owning minerals but on mastering the entire value chain — from mine to market, recycling to refining, and diplomacy to domestic manufacturing.
UPSC PYQ
Q. Consider the following minerals: (2020)
- Bentonite
- Chromite
- Kyanite
- Sillimanite
In India, which of the above is/are officially designated as major minerals?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 4 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 2, 3 and 4 only
Answer: (d) 2, 3 and 4 only
Explanation
In India, minerals are broadly classified into major minerals and minor minerals under the mining regulatory framework.
- Bentonite is not treated as a major mineral in this context.
- Chromite is a major mineral. It is an important ore of chromium.
- Kyanite is a major mineral, used mainly in refractory industries.
- Sillimanite is also a major mineral, used in high-temperature industrial applications.
Therefore, Chromite, Kyanite and Sillimanite are officially designated as major minerals.
CARE MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding critical minerals:
- Critical minerals are essential for clean energy, semiconductors, defence and advanced manufacturing.
- India has identified 30 critical minerals.
- Critical minerals are important only for fossil fuel-based industries.
- Rare earth elements are used in permanent magnets and wind turbines.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 4 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 4 only
Explanation
Statements 1, 2 and 4 are correct. Critical minerals are important for clean energy, defence, electronics and advanced manufacturing. India has identified 30 critical minerals, and rare earths are used in magnets and wind turbines. Statement 3 is incorrect because critical minerals are central to clean energy and advanced technologies, not only fossil fuel industries.
FAQs
1. What are critical minerals?
Critical minerals are minerals essential for strategic sectors but vulnerable to supply disruption.
2. Why are critical minerals important?
They are needed for electric vehicles, batteries, renewable energy, semiconductors, defence and electronics.
3. How many critical minerals has India identified?
India has identified 30 critical minerals.
4. Which minerals are important for batteries?
Lithium, cobalt, nickel and graphite are important for battery technologies.
5. Why are rare earth elements important?
They are used in permanent magnets, wind turbines, electric motors, electronics and defence systems.
6. What is KABIL?
Khanij Bidesh India Limited is involved in overseas acquisition of critical mineral assets.
Relevance: UPSC GS Paper III: Environment, Energy Security, Infrastructure, Industrial Policy, Science and Technology
For Prelims:
- Electric Vehicles | FAME India | PM E-DRIVE | PLI-ACC Battery | CAFE Norms
For Mains:
- Clean mobility | Energy security | Low-carbon transport | Domestic manufacturing | Green industrial transition
Why in News?
India’s electric vehicle ecosystem is expanding rapidly, with EV sales rising nearly 46 times since 2016. According to the PIB report, EV sales increased from around 50,000 units in 2016 to about 23 lakh units in 2025, while EV exports rose from USD 1.2 million in 2020 to USD 84 million in 2024. This reflects India’s growing shift towards clean mobility, energy security and domestic EV manufacturing.
What is an Electric Vehicle?
An Electric Vehicle is a vehicle powered by an electric motor using energy stored in a battery. The battery can be recharged through an external power source.
EVs are important because they reduce dependence on fossil fuels, lower vehicular emissions and support India’s transition towards a cleaner transport system.
Types of Electric Vehicles
Type of EV | Meaning |
Battery Electric Vehicle | Fully electric vehicle powered only by battery |
Hybrid Electric Vehicle | Uses both internal combustion engine and electric motor |
Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle | Hybrid vehicle with externally rechargeable battery |
Fuel Cell Electric Vehicle | Produces electricity from chemical energy, usually hydrogen |
India’s EV Growth in the Last Decade
India’s EV transition began gaining momentum after the launch of the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan and FAME India Scheme in 2015.
Key Growth Indicators
Indicator | Status |
EV sales in 2016 | Around 50,000 units |
EV sales in 2025 | Around 23 lakh units |
Growth since 2016 | Nearly 46 times |
EV adoption FY 2015–16 | 0.08% |
EV adoption FY 2025–26 | 8.26% |
EV exports in 2020 | USD 1.2 million |
EV exports in 2024 | USD 84 million |
This growth has been driven by policy incentives, improved vehicle availability, rising environmental awareness and increasing consumer confidence.
Why EVs are the Smart Choice
1. Lower Running Cost
EVs reduce fuel expenses and have fewer moving parts, resulting in lower maintenance costs.
2. Eco-Friendly Mobility
EVs have zero tailpipe emissions and a smaller carbon footprint compared to conventional vehicles.
3. Silent Ride
EVs reduce engine noise and help lower urban noise pollution.
4. Convenient Charging
Charging options are expanding through home charging and public charging stations.
5. Tax and Policy Benefits
Lower registration fees, tax incentives and government schemes make EVs financially attractive.
6. Easy Driving Experience
EVs do not require gear or clutch operation, making driving smoother and easier.
Policy Engine Behind India’s EV Growth
India’s EV growth has been supported by a combination of demand incentives, manufacturing incentives, battery localisation and charging infrastructure expansion.
Major Policy Interventions
- National Mission on Manufacturing, 2025
- PM E-DRIVE Scheme, 2024
- PM e-Bus Sewa Payment Security Mechanism Scheme, 2024
- Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars in India, 2024
- PLI Scheme for Automobile and Auto Components Industry, 2021
- PLI Scheme for Advanced Chemistry Cell Battery Storage, 2021
Major Government Schemes
1. National Electric Mobility Mission Plan
The NEMMP 2020 provided a roadmap for faster adoption and domestic manufacturing of EVs. It aimed to improve energy security and promote clean mobility.
2. FAME India Scheme
The FAME India Scheme was launched in 2015 under the NEMMP framework. It supported EV adoption through buyer incentives, charging infrastructure and manufacturing support.
3. PM E-DRIVE Scheme
The PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement Scheme was notified in 2024 by the Ministry of Heavy Industries.
Key Features
- Outlay of ₹10,900 crore
- Covers e-two-wheelers, e-three-wheelers, e-trucks, e-buses and e-ambulances
- Supports domestic manufacturing through the Phased Manufacturing Programme
- Provides incentives to reduce purchase cost
- Allocates ₹4,391 crore for e-buses
- Provides ₹2,000 crore for public charging stations
- Allocates ₹780 crore for modernisation of vehicle testing agencies
4. PM e-Bus Sewa Payment Security Mechanism Scheme
This scheme supports deployment of 10,000 electric buses through the Public Private Partnership model. It provides payment security coverage for buses for up to 12 years.
It aims to strengthen urban bus transport, reduce vehicular pollution and improve clean public mobility.
5. PLI Scheme for Automobile and Auto Components
The PLI-Auto Scheme, 2021 promotes domestic manufacturing of advanced automotive technology, including EVs.
It requires a minimum 50% domestic value addition and encourages investment across the automotive value chain.
6. PLI Scheme for Advanced Chemistry Cell Battery Storage
The PLI-ACC Battery Scheme, 2021 has an outlay of ₹18,100 crore and aims to establish 50 GWh of advanced battery manufacturing capacity.
Batteries account for nearly 35–40% of an EV’s total cost. Therefore, domestic battery manufacturing is critical for reducing EV prices and improving energy security.
7. Low GST on EVs
EVs attract a concessional 5% GST, making them more tax-friendly compared to conventional vehicles.
Manufacturing, Startups and Exports
- India is moving from an assembly-led EV market to a broader manufacturing ecosystem.
Domestic production now covers:
- battery packs
- motors
- drivetrains
- power electronics
- wiring systems
- charging equipment
- Major Indian manufacturers such as Tata Motors, Mahindra, TVS and Bajaj Auto are expanding EV capacity. Global players are also exploring manufacturing opportunities in India.
- India has around 400 EV startups, working in areas such as charging infrastructure, battery innovation, low-cost manufacturing and data-driven mobility solutions.
- EV exports have grown from USD 1.2 million in 2020 to USD 84 million in 2024, with destinations including Nepal, Indonesia and Japan.
EV Infrastructure and Charging Network
- Charging infrastructure is essential for wider EV adoption.As of July 2026, India had 52,718 public charging stations, of which 16,561 were equipped with fast charging facilities.
- Tools such as e-Amrit help users locate charging stations. Industry players are also expanding fast-charging networks across cities and highways.
India Electric Mobility Index
The India Electric Mobility Index was launched by NITI Aayog in August 2025.
It tracks the progress of States and Union Territories in electric mobility across three pillars:
- transport electrification
- charging infrastructure readiness
- EV research and innovation
Regions are classified as:
- Frontrunners
- Performers
- Aspirants
Delhi, Maharashtra and Chandigarh emerged as frontrunners due to their stronger EV ecosystems.
India’s EV and Climate Vision
India’s EV policy is linked with its wider climate commitments.
Key Climate Goals
Goal | Target |
EV penetration | 30% by 2030 |
Emission reduction | Cut 1 billion tonnes of projected carbon emissions by 2030 |
Carbon intensity | Reduce by 45% by 2030 |
Net-zero target | Achieve net-zero by 2070 |
Transport accounts for around 9% of India’s total emissions. Therefore, EVs are important for reducing oil dependence, improving air quality and supporting a low-carbon economy.
Challenges in India’s EV Transition
1. Charging Infrastructure Gap
Although charging stations are increasing, range anxiety remains a concern in many regions.
2. Battery Dependence
India still depends on imports for key battery minerals and components, especially lithium, cobalt and nickel.
3. High Upfront Cost
EVs have lower running costs, but initial purchase cost remains a barrier for many consumers.
4. Grid Readiness
Large-scale EV charging requires reliable electricity supply and smart grid management.
5. Recycling and Battery Waste
Battery recycling systems must be strengthened to manage end-of-life batteries sustainably.
6. Uneven State-Level Progress
Some States have mature EV ecosystems, while others need stronger policy support and infrastructure.
Way Forward
1. Expand Charging Infrastructure
India must build reliable public charging networks across cities, highways and rural growth centres.
2. Localise Battery Manufacturing
Domestic production of battery cells, components and critical minerals must be strengthened.
3. Strengthen Public Transport Electrification
E-buses, e-rickshaws and last-mile EVs can reduce pollution and improve urban mobility.
4. Improve Affordability
Financial incentives, low-interest loans and battery leasing models can make EVs more accessible.
5. Promote Battery Recycling
India should scale up recycling of lithium-ion batteries and adopt circular economy principles.
6. Support EV Startups
Startups working in charging, battery technology, software and mobility solutions should receive regulatory and financial support.
7. Improve State-Level Coordination
States should align EV policies with land, power, transport, urban planning and industrial policy.
Conclusion
India’s EV transition is no longer limited to environmental policy; it has become a major pillar of energy security, industrial transformation and climate action. Rising EV sales, expanding charging infrastructure, domestic manufacturing, startup innovation and policy support show that India is entering a decisive phase of clean mobility. However, the next stage will depend on battery localisation, mineral security, grid readiness, affordable financing and recycling systems. If implemented effectively, India can become not only a large EV market but also a global hub for electric mobility manufacturing, exports and green industrial growth.
CARE MCQ
Q. Consider the following statements regarding India’s electric vehicle ecosystem:
- The FAME India Scheme was launched under the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan framework.
- The PM E-DRIVE Scheme supports EV adoption and charging infrastructure.
- EVs attract a concessional GST rate of 5% in India.
- Battery Electric Vehicles use only hydrogen fuel cells and do not require batteries.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 4 only
(c) 2, 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only
Explanation
Statements 1, 2 and 3 are correct. FAME India was launched under the NEMMP framework, PM E-DRIVE supports EV adoption and charging infrastructure, and EVs attract 5% GST.
Statement 4 is incorrect because Battery Electric Vehicles are powered by batteries, not hydrogen fuel cells.
FAQs
1. What is an electric vehicle?
An electric vehicle is powered by an electric motor using energy stored in a rechargeable battery.
2. Which scheme first promoted EV adoption in India?
The FAME India Scheme, launched in 2015 under the NEMMP framework.
3. What is PM E-DRIVE?
It is a 2024 scheme to promote EV adoption, domestic manufacturing and charging infrastructure.
4. How much have EV sales grown since 2016?
EV sales have grown nearly 46 times.
5. What was India’s EV adoption rate in FY 2025–26?
It reached 8.26%.
6. What is the GST rate on EVs in India?
EVs attract a concessional 5% GST.
7. Why are batteries important in EV costs?
Batteries account for around 35–40% of an EV’s total cost.
