Voluntary Vehicle Modernization Policy (V-VMP) / Vehicle Scrapping Policy (VSP) – 27 New Vehicles Distributed to 17 Departments

Aizawl : Today at 1:00 PM, Transport Minister Pu Vanlalhlana handed over 27 new vehicles to 17 government departments under the Voluntary Vehicle Modernization Policy (V-VMP) and Vehicle Scrapping Policy (VSP), as part of SASCI Part-II. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH), aims to replace outdated government vehicles with new ones, promoting eco-friendly and fuel-efficient transportation.

The vehicle distribution program was presided over by Transport Secretary Pu Zosangliana, with Er. R. Lalrammawia presenting a technical report. Following this, Transport Minister Pu Vanlalhlana officially handed over the vehicle documents to the respective departments. In his speech, the Minister emphasized that this program is a significant initiative for the Transport Department. He expressed appreciation for the distribution of 27 new vehicles to 17 government departments, made possible through SASCI funding. He also clarified that these incentives should not be used solely for departmental purposes but should be coordinated with the General Administration Department (GAD) to ensure optimal utilization.

The Minister highlighted the importance of this program in addressing climate change and promoting sustainable development. He emphasized that achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) requires active participation from various government sectors.

Promoting Ethanol-Blended Fuel and Sustainable Mobility

The Minister further explained that petrol pumps will soon supply ethanol-blended fuel as part of India’s Ethanol Blending Program launched in 2018. The government achieved its 10% ethanol-blended petrol target in November 2022 ahead of schedule and is now advancing its 20% blending target from 2030 to 2025-26.

To complement this, the Vehicle Scrapping Policy (VSP) has been introduced to phase out old and unfit vehicles. This initiative will recycle materials like metal, rubber, and glass from scrapped vehicles, reducing environmental impact while promoting resource efficiency. The recycling process is expected to save costs and generate employment opportunities.

The Transport Department is also working on establishing a Registered Vehicle Scrapping Facility (RVSF) in Hlimen, Mizoram. Vehicle owners with cars older than 15 years will be encouraged to scrap their vehicles through this facility.

Enhancing Road Safety and Vehicle Standards

India has one of the highest road accident rates globally. In Mizoram alone, from January to February 19, 2025, 85 accidents were reported, resulting in 42 fatalities. Given this alarming trend, the Indian government is prioritizing vehicle safety and regulations.

To enhance safety, the Bharat New Car Assessment Program (Bharat NCAP) was introduced in August 2023. Under this program, newly manufactured vehicles undergo crash tests and receive safety ratings based on their protection standards. The Minister stressed that manufacturers must prioritize vehicle safety to ensure consumer protection.

Additionally, features such as panic buttons for passengers and vehicle tracking devices have been mandated by MoRTH. The Minister also revealed that he had formally requested Union Minister support to cover 50% of the cost for implementing these safety features.

Regulations for Old Vehicles and Fitness Certification

The Minister also highlighted new fitness certification and registration renewal policies for vehicles older than 15 years. He stated that:

• Fitness certificate renewal fees for 15-year-old vehicles have increased significantly to discourage prolonged use.
• Vehicles over 15 years must undergo testing at Automated Testing Stations (ATS).
• If a vehicle fails the fitness test after 15 years, it will be classified as an End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) and must be scrapped.

MoRTH continues to introduce new initiatives to modernize India’s transport sector. However, the implementation speed varies across states, and Mizoram must keep pace with national reforms.

Incentives and Benefits under the Vehicle Scrapping Policy

The Vehicle Scrapping Policy (VSP) offers several benefits to vehicle owners:

• Non-transport vehicles are eligible for a 25% road tax discount when purchasing a new vehicle after scrapping an old one.
• Transport vehicles receive a 15% tax discount under the same condition.
• Registration fees are waived for scrapped vehicles replaced with new ones.
• Vehicle manufacturers will provide discounts on new vehicle purchases for customers who scrap their old vehicles.

MoRTH has also introduced milestone-based incentives under V-VMP. Mizoram has successfully achieved its first milestone, securing ₹3 crore in incentives. The 27 vehicles distributed today were procured through the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) at a cost of ₹2.8 crore.

The Minister concluded by stating that these vehicles would be immediately allocated to the respective departments, ensuring efficient use in government operations.