Daily Current Affairs : 6-November-2024

The PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) scheme is an initiative by the Indian government to promote electric vehicles (EVs) in the country. Launched on October 1, 2024, under the Ministry of Heavy Industries, this scheme focuses on accelerating the adoption of EVs, expanding charging infrastructure, and building a strong domestic EV manufacturing ecosystem. With a financial commitment of Rs. 10,900 crores, the program is set to run until March 31, 2026.

Objectives of the PM E-DRIVE Scheme

The primary objectives of the PM E-DRIVE scheme are as follows:

  • Encourage EV Adoption: The scheme aims to boost the use of electric vehicles, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
  • Environmental Impact: By promoting cleaner transport options, it seeks to reduce harmful emissions, contributing to a greener environment.
  • Domestic Manufacturing: The scheme will support the growth of the domestic EV manufacturing industry, creating jobs and reducing imports.

Key Components of the Scheme

The PM E-DRIVE scheme includes various components designed to address the needs of different sectors:

  • Subsidies for Electric Vehicles: Incentives are provided for electric two-wheelers (e-2Ws), three-wheelers (e-3Ws), e-ambulances, e-trucks, and other EVs.
  • Capital Asset Grants: Funding will support the development of e-buses, charging stations, and the upgrading of testing facilities.
  • Project Management and Administration: The scheme includes support for project management agencies and public awareness programs.

Eligibility Criteria

The scheme is designed to benefit a wide range of EV users, with specific eligibility criteria for different categories:

  • Electric Two-Wheelers (e-2Ws): Incentives will be available for 24.79 lakh e-2Ws that have advanced batteries. This applies to both private and commercial vehicles.
  • Electric Three-Wheelers (e-3Ws): Around 3.2 lakh e-3Ws, including e-rickshaws and L5 vehicles, will qualify for subsidies if used commercially and have advanced batteries.
  • Electric Ambulances: The scheme will provide Rs. 500 crore for e-ambulances, with standards set by the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders.
  • Electric Trucks: Rs. 500 crore will support e-trucks, provided they meet MoRTH’s scrapping guidelines.
  • Electric Buses: Rs. 4,391 crore will fund 14,028 e-buses, prioritizing those replacing older buses in large cities.

Important Points:

  • PM E-DRIVE Scheme Launch: Launched on October 1, 2024, by the Ministry of Heavy Industries with a budget of Rs. 10,900 crores.
  • Scheme Duration: Active until March 31, 2026.
  • Main Objectives:
    • Promote electric vehicle adoption.
    • Reduce environmental impact from transport.
    • Support domestic EV manufacturing.
  • Key Components:
    • Subsidies for electric two-wheelers (e-2Ws), three-wheelers (e-3Ws), e-ambulances, e-trucks, and other EVs.
    • Grants for e-buses, charging stations, and testing facility upgrades.
    • Project management and public awareness activities.
  • Eligibility Criteria:
    • e-2Ws: Incentives for 24.79 lakh advanced battery e-2Ws (private and commercial).
    • e-3Ws: Around 3.2 lakh commercial e-3Ws (including e-rickshaws and L5 vehicles) with advanced batteries.
    • e-ambulances: Rs. 500 crore allocated to support e-ambulances, meeting Ministry of Health standards.
    • e-trucks: Rs. 500 crore for e-trucks, requiring a scrapping certificate from MoRTH-approved centers.
    • e-buses: Rs. 4,391 crore to fund 14,028 e-buses, prioritizing cities replacing older buses.
  • Scheme Impact:
    • Boosts the adoption of cleaner, greener transport.
    • Supports the growth of India’s domestic EV manufacturing sector.
    • Aims to reduce dependence on fossil fuels and lower emissions.

Why In News

The PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE) scheme, launched by the Indian government, aims to accelerate electric vehicle (EV) adoption, develop the necessary charging infrastructure, and create a robust EV manufacturing ecosystem in the country, while also promoting sustainable transportation solutions to reduce the environmental impact of traditional vehicles.

MCQs about The PM E-DRIVE Scheme

  1. When was the PM Electric Drive Revolution (PM E-DRIVE) scheme launched?
    A. October 1, 2023
    B. October 1, 2024
    C. March 31, 2026
    D. January 1, 2025
    Correct Answer: B. October 1, 2024
    Explanation: The PM E-DRIVE scheme was launched by the Indian government on October 1, 2024, to promote electric vehicle adoption and related infrastructure.
  2. Which category of electric vehicles will NOT receive subsidies under the PM E-DRIVE scheme?
    A. Electric two-wheelers (e-2Ws)
    B. Electric three-wheelers (e-3Ws)
    C. Electric ambulances
    D. Conventional petrol cars
    Correct Answer: D. Conventional petrol cars
    Explanation: The PM E-DRIVE scheme offers subsidies for electric two-wheelers (e-2Ws), electric three-wheelers (e-3Ws), electric ambulances, and electric trucks, but conventional petrol cars are not part of this program.
  3. What is one of the key eligibility criteria for electric trucks under the PM E-DRIVE scheme?
    A. Must have a battery capacity of at least 20 kWh
    B. Must meet MoRTH’s scrapping guidelines
    C. Must be privately owned
    D. Must be used only for passenger transport
    Correct Answer: B. Must meet MoRTH’s scrapping guidelines
    Explanation: For electric trucks, a key eligibility criterion is that they must provide a scrapping certificate from a MoRTH-approved center to qualify for the scheme’s incentives.

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