Vehicle Renewal – Government Clears PARIVARTAN Rules to Modernise NCR Transport Fleet
Vehicle Renewal – The Centre has approved the operational guidelines for the PARIVARTAN scheme, paving the way for the replacement of old and heavily polluting trucks and buses across the National Capital Region (NCR). The initiative is designed to encourage fleet owners to switch to Bharat Stage (BS)-VI compliant or electric vehicles, helping reduce transport-related emissions and improve air quality in the region.
Scheme Ready for Implementation
With the approval of the guidelines by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA), the PARIVARTAN programme is now set to move into the implementation phase. The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) will oversee the execution of the scheme, while funding will be routed through the National Capital Region Planning Board (NCRPB). The coordinated approach is intended to tackle vehicle emissions across Delhi and neighbouring NCR states through a unified regional strategy.
Financial Support and Government Commitment
The PARIVARTAN scheme received government approval on June 3 with an overall financial allocation of Rs 9,585 crore. Out of this, the Central government will contribute Rs 5,041 crore as budgetary support. Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Manohar Lal described the approval of the operational framework as a significant milestone for the NCR, stating that replacing ageing commercial vehicles is expected to substantially reduce pollution levels and contribute to noticeable improvements in the region’s Air Quality Index (AQI). He added that the initiative is aimed at providing long-term environmental benefits for residents across Delhi-NCR.
Incentives to Encourage Vehicle Replacement
To make the transition more affordable for transport operators, the scheme includes a wide range of financial incentives. Eligible buyers of new vehicles will receive concessions on motor vehicle tax, exemptions from registration fees, and a 5% interest subsidy on vehicle loans. In addition, vehicle manufacturers will offer a minimum discount of 8% on qualifying new vehicles. Operators replacing older diesel or CNG vehicles may also receive monthly fuel voucher assistance, while those opting for electric vehicles will be eligible for one-time financial support. The scheme further provides benefits linked to the trading of Certificates of Deposit (CoD), creating additional incentives for retiring older vehicles.
States Extend Additional Benefits
Several NCR states have already taken steps to support the programme. Rajasthan, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and the National Capital Territory of Delhi have issued notifications granting a ten-year concession on motor vehicle tax for eligible replacement vehicles purchased under the scheme. These states have also approved a complete waiver of registration fees, further lowering the cost of upgrading commercial fleets.
Focus on Cleaner Air Across the NCR
The PARIVARTAN initiative builds upon earlier measures introduced to restrict the movement of highly polluting heavy vehicles in the NCR. By promoting cleaner transport technologies and encouraging the replacement of ageing trucks and buses, the government aims to reduce harmful emissions while supporting sustainable mobility across the region. Officials believe the combined financial incentives and policy support will accelerate the adoption of cleaner commercial vehicles, helping improve public health and environmental conditions in one of the country’s most polluted urban regions