As India accelerates toward green mobility, Bihar has taken a bold step with its Rural EV Auto-Rickshaw Subsidy 2025. This state-backed initiative is aimed at reducing air pollution, promoting sustainable transport, and empowering rural livelihoods by making electric rickshaws more affordable. If you’re looking to buy an e-rickshaw in Bihar or exploring available financial support, this comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know.
What is the Rural EV Auto-Rickshaw Subsidy 2025?
The Rural EV Auto-Rickshaw Subsidy 2025 is a government-led scheme launched by the Bihar government to encourage the adoption of electric vehicles in non-urban areas. It targets individuals, cooperatives, and small-scale transport operators operating in rural and semi-rural zones. The subsidy helps reduce the cost of purchasing new electric auto-rickshaws and includes additional support for maintenance and charging infrastructure.
Objectives of the Subsidy Scheme
- Promote Green Transport: Cut down carbon emissions by transitioning from fossil-fuel vehicles to EVs.
- Empower Rural Mobility: Improve last-mile connectivity in rural areas.
- Boost Employment: Encourage self-employment through e-rickshaw ownership.
- Encourage Local Manufacturing: Increase demand for locally-produced EVs and parts.
Key Features of Bihar’s E-Rickshaw Grant
- Subsidy Amount: Eligible applicants may receive a subsidy of up to Rs. 50,000 or 15% of the vehicle cost, whichever is lower.
- Target Beneficiaries:
- Rural residents
- Women and SC/ST applicants (with preference)
- Informal sector workers and small-scale transport providers
- Vehicle Eligibility:
- Only new, certified electric rickshaws qualify
- The vehicle must be registered with the Bihar Transport Department
- Battery Type Support:
- Priority is given to lithium-ion battery e-rickshaws for longer life and eco-friendliness
- Charging Infrastructure Aid:
- Additional incentives may be provided for setting up home-based or community charging points
Application Process
- Online Registration: Applicants must register on the official Bihar EV Portal or Transport Department website.
- Document Submission:
- Aadhar Card
- Proof of rural residence
- Vehicle purchase invoice
- Bank account details
- Caste or income certificate, if applicable
- Approval & Disbursement: Once the application is verified, the subsidy amount is transferred directly to the applicant’s bank account.
Additional Benefits
- Zero Road Tax for registered EV rickshaws under this scheme
- Insurance Discount schemes may be bundled in
- Access to Government Financing Schemes through tie-ups with rural banks and cooperatives
Impact of the Scheme
Since its launch, the e-rickshaw grant in Bihar has shown promising results:
- A surge in EV adoption across districts like Nalanda, Gaya, and Muzaffarpur
- Improvement in air quality levels in high-density rural transport corridors
- A rise in rural entrepreneurship, especially among women drivers and first-time business owners
Challenges and the Road Ahead
While the scheme has strong potential, challenges remain:
- Lack of widespread charging infrastructure in deep rural areas
- Limited awareness among target beneficiaries
- Need for better servicing and spare parts supply chains
To tackle these, the Bihar government plans awareness drives and is working on public-private partnerships to build EV infrastructure at the grassroots level.
FAQs on Rural EV Auto-Rickshaw Subsidy 2025
Q1: Who can apply for the Bihar e-rickshaw subsidy in 2025?
Rural residents, particularly those from underprivileged communities, informal workers, and small transporters.
Q2: What is the maximum subsidy offered?
Up to Rs. 50,000 or 15% of the vehicle cost, whichever is lower.
Q3: Are second-hand e-rickshaws eligible?
No, only new electric auto-rickshaws with valid certification qualify.
Q4: Is there a special quota for women?
Yes, the scheme provides preferential consideration to women applicants.
Q5: How can I track my subsidy application status?
You can check the status through the Bihar EV Portal using your registration ID.
click here to learn more