In a pivotal step towards accelerating electric vehicle (EV) adoption across the state, Odisha’s Commerce & Transport Department hosted a high-level stakeholder consultation today to refine the proposed amendments to the Odisha Electric Vehicle Policy.
Chaired by Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary of the Commerce & Transport Department, the meeting convened senior officials and domain experts from key sectors to brainstorm enhancements for the state’s burgeoning EV ecosystem.
The discussions centred on crafting a robust framework for the anticipated Odisha EV Policy 2.0, aligning it with national goals and Odisha’s ambitious Viksit Odisha 2036 vision for sustainable development.
The gathering, held in the 5th-floor conference hall of Kharsua Bhawan, saw participation from a cross-section of leaders, including Transport Commissioner Amitav Thakur, CMD-OSRTC N.B.P.S. Rajput, and MD-CRUT Sanjaya Biswal. Senior representatives from the Housing & Urban Development, Energy, Finance, and Skill Development & Technical Education Departments also contributed their insights, fostering a collaborative approach to policy formulation.
Key deliberations revolved around bolstering purchase incentives to make EVs more accessible, promoting vehicle retrofitment and scrappage programs to encourage upgrades, and expanding charging infrastructure in tandem with the central government’s PM E-DRIVE Scheme. Participants also explored the establishment of a dedicated State EV Fund, aimed at ensuring the financial viability and long-term sustainability of EV initiatives in Odisha.
Smt. Padhee emphasised the critical role of inter-departmental synergy and private sector involvement in driving this transformation. “Capacity building and policy alignment are essential for a seamless, inclusive shift to electric mobility,” she stated, underscoring the need for skilling programs and streamlined regulations to empower local stakeholders.
This consultation represents a significant milestone in Odisha’s journey to emerge as a frontrunner in India’s clean mobility revolution. By integrating innovative incentives and infrastructure development, the Odisha EV Policy 2.0 seeks to not only reduce carbon emissions but also stimulate economic growth through green jobs and manufacturing hubs. As deliberations conclude, the policy is poised for finalisation, promising an electrified future for the state’s transport landscape.
