Odisha aims to become EV hub with new electric vehicle policy 2025
Bhubaneswar, Sep 10 (UNI) The Odisha Government has unveiled a draft of the “Odisha Electric Vehicle Policy, 2025” aimed at making the state a model in electric mobility through large-scale adoption, infrastructure development, and research & innovation.
Commerce and Transport Secretary Usha Padhee said that the draft policy seeks to accelerate EV adoption, create green jobs, and foster sustainable growth, while also inviting suggestions from stakeholders and the public within 30 days of its notification in the Odisha Gazette.
Odisha’s first EV Policy, 2021, had set a target of achieving 20 percent EV adoption by August 2025, but despite attractive incentives, only 8.8 percent adoption has been achieved so far.
“To bridge these gaps and support the next phase of sustainable mobility, a revised and expanded framework is essential,” Padhee stated.
The new policy emphasizes climate action, reduced dependence on fossil fuels, and zero tailpipe emissions. It aligns with the state’s Vision 2036 and Vision 2047, which aim for 70 percent EV and alternative fuel vehicle sales by 2036 and 80 percent by 2047.
The draft policy outlines several key provisions, including the replacement of all government vehicles with electric vehicles (EVs) within six months of notification.
In the tourism and recreation sector, EVs will be mandatory for shuttle services at tourist sites, amusement parks, and picnic spots, while pedal or solar-electric hybrid boats will be introduced at boating sites within 12 months.
Schools and educational institutions will be encouraged to switch to electric buses within a year.
Government-operated ambulances and PCR vehicles will transition to EVs within 12 months.
To support the growth of EVs, the policy proposes the installation of fast-charging stations at all new and existing fuel pumps on state and national highways, as well as at OSRTC bus stations across the state.
Additionally, the government will provide Structured Viability Gap Funding (VGF) for DC fast-charging stations over a period of five years.
The policy also aims to promote research and innovation in the EV sector by establishing at least three Centres of Excellence (CoEs) for R&D in EVs, charging networks, and hydrogen technologies.
Furthermore, more incubation centres will be set up to support EV startups, offering them workspace, facilities, and mentorship.
A single-window portal will be created to streamline the approval process for charging infrastructure.
The policy will remain valid until December 31, 2030, offering a roadmap to accelerate EV adoption and position Odisha as a leader in sustainable transportation.
