Context: The Government informed Parliament about the status and expansion of EV charging infrastructure across India under schemes like FAME-II and PM E-DRIVE.
About EV Charging Infrastructure:
What it is?
- EV Charging Infrastructure refers to a network of charging stations (EVPCS) that supply electricity to recharge electric vehicles.
- It includes public, private, and highway-based charging systems, with participation from both government and private players.
Data / Key Statistics:
- Total EV Public Charging Stations (till March 2026): 27,737 installed; 22,753 operational.
- Highest installations in: Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu.
- FAME-II Scheme: ₹912.5 crore sanctioned; ₹655.43 crore utilized.
- PM E-DRIVE Scheme: ₹2,000 crore allocated (no funds released yet).
- EV charging setup is de-licensed, enabling private sector participation.
Significance:
- Enables shift from fossil fuels to clean mobility, reducing carbon emissions and oil dependence.
- Availability of charging stations reduces range anxiety, accelerating electric vehicle penetration in India.
- Encourages investment, innovation, and job creation in EV ecosystem and green infrastructure.
Relevance in UPSC Exam Syllabus
- GS Paper III (Economy & Environment):
- Infrastructure development
- Renewable energy & climate change mitigation
- Government schemes (FAME, PM E-DRIVE)
- GS Paper II (Governance):
- Policy implementation, public-private participation
