In a significant move blending clean technology with social empowerment, the Delhi government’s upcoming Electric Vehicle (EV) Policy 2025 aims to do more than just promote green mobility—it’s now looking to close gender gaps in urban transportation. As part of the draft policy, women who purchase electric two-wheelers may receive a subsidy of up to ₹30,000, calculated at ₹10,000 per kilowatt-hour of battery capacity. The incentive is designed not just to reduce carbon emissions or traffic pollution, but also to make independent mobility more affordable and accessible for women across the capital. This initiative stands at the intersection of sustainability and social inclusion, signalling that the EV revolution in Delhi isn't just about what we drive, but also who gets to drive. With women’s safety, autonomy, and urban mobility often under-addressed in policy, this proposal could help reimagine the way public benefits are distributed—with equity, practicality, and purpose in mind.
What the Draft Policy Proposes
The Delhi government’s draft EV Policy 2025 is currently under review and includes several progressive reforms. Among its most notable provisions is the targeted subsidy for women residents of Delhi who purchase electric two-wheelers. The subsidy will be capped at ₹30,000 and available to the first 10,000 eligible applicants holding a valid driving license. This marks the first time that an EV subsidy in India has been gender-specific, reflecting a growing awareness that the benefits of green technology must be intentionally inclusive.
The policy is being positioned not only as a clean mobility initiative but also as a tool for greater gender parity in personal transport. In urban areas like Delhi, where access to safe, reliable transport is a barrier for many women, this subsidy could prove transformational.
Other Key Features of the Policy
The policy doesn’t stop at two-wheelers. Electric goods carriers and various classes of three-wheelers will also see tiered incentives. For example, electric three-wheelers in the L5N goods category may receive up to ₹20,000, while the larger N1 category could qualify for subsidies up to ₹75,000.
Owners of older fossil fuel vehicles scrapped in favour of electric replacements may also get an additional incentive of ₹10,000. Furthermore, the government is proposing exemptions on road tax and registration fees for EV buyers and considering relaxed usage restrictions on electric vehicles on certain roads.
Why the Gender Focus Matters
Research from across India and the world shows that lack of mobility is a serious constraint on women’s access to education, employment, and social independence. High transport costs, safety concerns, and reliance on male family members often hinder women's ability to travel freely. By subsidizing personal electric vehicles, the Delhi government is directly addressing this issue—empowering women to take charge of their own mobility in an eco-friendly way.
Moreover, women are often more price-sensitive consumers, especially when it comes to vehicles. A targeted financial incentive makes EVs more viable for middle- and lower-income women who may otherwise not consider buying a vehicle.
Towards an Inclusive Electric Future
The Delhi government’s efforts show a maturing approach to policymaking—one that sees technology and equity not as separate spheres but as partners in progress. While EVs are already being adopted widely thanks to their long-term cost savings and environmental benefits, such policy tweaks ensure that this transition doesn't inadvertently exclude half the population.
With India targeting ambitious net-zero emission goals and Delhi struggling with some of the world’s worst air pollution levels, getting more electric vehicles on the road is a strategic imperative. However, ensuring that women are equal participants in this transition makes that imperative more just—and more powerful.
What Lies Ahead
The final version of the EV Policy 2025 is expected to be released soon, pending cabinet approval. If implemented as proposed, it could serve as a model for other Indian states to follow—where EV adoption is not just an environmental solution, but a social innovation as well.