Quick Highlights:India installs 39,485 public EV chargers, including 8,414 fast chargers under PM E-DRIVE.Charging stations remain an unlicensed activity, boosting private participation.10,900 e-buses allocated under Phase I of PM E-DRIVE bus procurement program.Multiple PLI schemes and EV-focused policies aim to scale manufacturing and adoption.India Crosses 39,000 Public EV Charger Installations Under PM E-DRIVEIndia’s electric mobility ecosystem has reached a new milestone with the installation of 39,485 public EV chargers across the country under the PM E-DRIVE Scheme. As reported by Bharat Heavy Electricals Ltd (BHEL), the project’s implementation agency, the rollout includes 8,414 fast chargers tailored for electric cars. This marks a significant step toward improving charging accessibility and reducing range anxiety for current and future EV users.The government’s thrust is supported by the Ministry of Power’s 2024 Guidelines for EV Charging Infrastructure , which define technical standards, interoperability protocols, and requirements for both charging and battery-swapping stations. Notably, the setup of EV charging stations remains an unlicensed activity , allowing private companies, startups and entrepreneurs to freely establish charging networks. This regulatory openness has been a key contributor to the rapid expansion of the country’s public charging ecosystem.To further accelerate deployment, the PM E-DRIVE Scheme has set aside ₹2,000 crore specifically for public charging infrastructure , enabling states, cities and private operators to strengthen coverage in both urban and highway corridors.Electric Bus Expansion Gains MomentumThe Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI) has reaffirmed its commitment to boosting electric mobility through expanded procurement of electric buses. Under the PM E-DRIVE electric bus program, 10,900 e-buses have been allocated to five cities in Phase I , with bids opened on 14 November 2025. An additional 2,900 e-buses have been sanctioned under Phase II , reinforcing the government’s strategy to electrify public transportation and reduce emissions in urban centers.Complementing these initiatives, the PM e-Bus Sewa-PSM Scheme , with a budget of ₹3,435 crore , enables the deployment of more than 38,000 electric buses nationwide. The scheme incorporates a payment security mechanism, providing financial confidence to operators and encouraging wider adoption by state transport undertakings.Multi-Scheme Push for EV Manufacturing and AdoptionWhile India has not announced fixed national EV penetration targets, the government is using a multi-layered, incentive-driven approach to stimulate adoption and manufacturing. Several flagship schemes are contributing to this ecosystem:PLI Auto and Auto Component SchemeWith an outlay of ₹25,938 crore , this scheme aims to enhance domestic production of advanced automotive technologies, including electric vehicles and their components. It supports manufacturers as they scale technology-driven production capabilities within India.PLI for Advanced Chemistry Cell (ACC) BatteriesThis ₹18,100 crore initiative is geared toward building a robust 60 GWh battery manufacturing ecosystem . The scheme addresses one of the most critical components of EVs, helping reduce dependence on imports and supporting long-term cost reductions.PM E-DRIVE SchemeWith ₹10,900 crore earmarked, the program supports multiple EV segments such as e2Ws, e3Ws, electric trucks, e-ambulances and charging infrastructure. It builds on earlier FAME incentives but with a broader, more flexible structure aligned with current market needs.Scheme for Promotion of Manufacturing of Electric Passenger Cars (SPMEPCI)Designed to boost domestic production of electric passenger cars, SPMEPCI mandates a minimum investment of ₹4,150 crore along with localization milestones of 25 percent by Year 3 and 50 percent by Year 5 . The scheme enhances India’s potential to become a competitive global hub for EV car manufacturing.Government Signals Long-Term CommitmentMinister of State for Heavy Industries Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma outlined these developments in a recent written reply in the Rajya Sabha. His update highlighted that the government’s combined initiatives aim to expand EV adoption, strengthen local manufacturing capabilities and build a comprehensive national charging network.From widespread public charger installation to large-scale e-bus procurement and manufacturing-focused PLI schemes, India’s multi-scheme strategy is shaping a strong foundation for sustained EV growth. With supportive policies and growing private participation, the country is steadily moving toward a more electrified and sustainable mobility landscape.