Himachal Pradesh’s e-taxi subsidy scheme, part of the Rajiv Gandhi Swarozgar Startup Yojana, offers 50% subsidies to promote electric vehicles. With Rs 2.5 crore allocated, the initiative aims to transform the state into a green energy hub by 2026. The scheme supports youth employment and sustainable transport, with 100 e-taxis already integrated into government operations.
Himachal Pradesh Accelerates Electric Taxi Initiative for Green Future
The Himachal Pradesh government is steering the state toward a sustainable future with its ambitious e-taxi subsidy scheme under the Rs 680 crore Rajiv Gandhi Swarozgar Startup Yojana. Launched to promote eco-friendly transport and youth employment, the scheme provides a 50% subsidy for purchasing electric taxis, making it a cornerstone of the state’s goal to become a ‘Green Energy State’ by March 2026.
In a significant step, the state government recently released Rs 2.5 crore to the Labour Department to facilitate the scheme’s implementation, enabling eligible youth to acquire e-taxis with financial support. This funding has paved the way for a flag-off ceremony for these vehicles, marking a milestone in the state’s green transport journey. As of April 2025, 50 e-taxis have been attached to various government departments, with another 50 approvals pending to further expand the initiative’s reach.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has been a vocal advocate for the scheme, emphasizing its dual benefits of economic empowerment and environmental conservation. “I have been using an e-vehicle for quite some time, which is very economical,” Sukhu stated, highlighting the cost-effectiveness of electric vehicles. The government has set an ambitious target to convert 3,000 petrol and diesel vehicles into electric ones this year, reinforcing its commitment to sustainable mobility.
To support this transition, Himachal Pradesh has established six green corridors and plans to set up 41 additional electric vehicle charging stations. These infrastructure developments aim to address range anxiety and ensure seamless operations for e-taxi drivers. Additionally, the state offers a 100% exemption on road tax and a 50% exemption on special road tax for registering e-commercial vehicles, making the scheme financially attractive for operators.
The initiative aligns with broader efforts to combat climate change, especially critical in Himachal Pradesh, where recent monsoon-related disasters, including cloudbursts and landslides, have underscored the impacts of global warming. The state reported 69 deaths and over Rs 400 crore in damages between June 20 and July 3, 2025, due to torrential rains. By promoting electric vehicles, the government aims to reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the ecological strain on the state’s fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
The e-taxi scheme also complements other green initiatives, such as the Green Panchayat Scheme, which includes plans for 500 KW solar power plants in 100 panchayats and interest subsidies for solar projects in tribal and non-tribal areas. These efforts reflect a holistic approach to sustainability, with the state government prioritizing renewable energy and eco-friendly transport to create a resilient future.
The Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) is also contributing to this green vision by issuing tenders to procure 297 electric buses at a cost of Rs 412 crore, with Rs 124 crore allocated for charging infrastructure at bus stations. These buses will further bolster the state’s public transport system, reducing reliance on fossil fuels.
Despite challenges posed by recent monsoon disruptions, which closed 261 roads and disrupted 797 water supply schemes, the state remains committed to its green agenda. The e-taxi scheme, in particular, has garnered attention for its potential to create jobs while addressing environmental concerns, positioning Himachal Pradesh as a leader in India’s electric vehicle adoption.
Disclaimer: This article is based on recent news reports and official statements from sources including NDTV, Hindustan Times, and Business Standard. Information is accurate as of July 4, 2025, and subject to updates as new developments emerge.