Telangana secures up to 20% EV discount for govt staff in first-of-its-kind move
HYDERABAD: Ponnam Prabhakar on Tuesday unveiled a first-of-its-kind initiative offering up to 20% discounts on electric vehicles (EVs) for State government employees. The government secured these deals after negotiations with leading manufacturers. Direct Discounts Through OEM Partnerships The State negotiated directly with companies such as Mahindra Electric, Ola Electric, Gravton Motors, and Ather Energy. This [...]Direct Discounts Through OEM Partnerships
The State negotiated directly with companies such as Mahindra Electric, Ola Electric, Gravton Motors, and Ather Energy. This move replaces the traditional subsidy route. Officials expect the scheme to benefit nearly five lakh employees. Each employee could save up to ₹4 lakh. Authorities say this is the first time in India that a State has secured direct price cuts from original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) for its workforce. Government Push for Affordable EV Adoption
Prabhakar said the initiative will make EVs more affordable and practical for daily use. He stressed that electrifying government transport will improve air quality across Telangana. Officials clarified that the scheme does not involve direct government subsidies. Instead, it uses a bulk institutional purchase model. Policy Backed by Chief Minister’s Directive
The announcement follows a directive from Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy. He has ordered all departments to procure only electric vehicles going forward. Departments must also hire only EVs for transport within core urban areas. Expansion of EV Infrastructure and Fleet
Telangana already operates over 2,800 electric buses in its public transport system. The government now plans to convert nearly one lakh auto-rickshaws to electric using retrofit kits. The State will also expand EV charging infrastructure. Charging points will come up at the Secretariat, district offices, mandal offices, and public parking spaces. The minister urged malls, hotels, and commercial complexes to install charging stations. Vision for Cleaner Mobility
Prabhakar said the government wants to avoid pollution levels seen in Delhi. He added that talks are ongoing with more manufacturers, including Tata Motors’ EV division. “Our goal is simple—cleaner air, lower fuel dependence, and making Telangana a model for green mobility,” he said. ]]>