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From FASTag to Future-Tech: Transforming India’s Highways The FASTag Revolution India’s highway infrastructure has undergone a radical transformation in the last decade, and at the heart of this change lies FASTag—a simple yet revolutionary RFID-based toll collection system. Introduced in 2014 and mandated nationwide by 2021, FASTag has not only digitized toll payments but also laid the foundation for a smarter, seamless, and sustainable mobility ecosystem.Today, with over 90% adoption and 50+ million active users, FASTag has:  Reduced toll plaza waiting times from 8 minutes to under 47 seconds.  Saved 15% fuel consumption by minimizing idling at toll booths.  Cut CO₂ emissions by 20%, contributing to India’s green mobility goals. But this is just the beginning. The next phase of India’s highway evolution is already underway—moving beyond FASTag to barrier-free, AI-driven, and satellite-based tolling. The Next Frontier: India’s Leap into Future-Tech Tolling  1. From RFID to GNSS & ANPR: The End of Toll Plazas? The government is now piloting Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) and Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technologies to eliminate physical toll booths entirely. GNSS-Based Tolling: Vehicles will be tracked via onboard GPS units, charging tolls based on distance traveled rather than fixed toll points. Enables barrier-free highways, reducing congestion and fuel wastage. Pilot projects are already testing this model on select corridors. ANPR for Seamless Payments: High-speed cameras will scan license plates and deduct tolls automatically. Challenges remain (e.g., non-standardized plates), but AI is improving accuracy. “We must build on FASTag’s success, not replace it. The next phase should integrate GNSS/ANPR while keeping FASTag wallets as the payment backbone.” — Bhargav Yogesh Padh, Head, Fleet Business. 2. AI & IoT: Making Highways Smarter The latest FASTag upgrades now include: AI-powered fraud detection to flag mismatched vehicle classes or tampered tags. Cloud-based toll management for real-time transaction processing and dynamic blacklisting. IoT-enabled plazas with RFID, ANPR, and edge computing for instant decisions. 3. Dynamic Tolling & Congestion Pricing India is exploring: Time-based tolling (higher fees during peak hours). Freight corridor optimization for logistics efficiency. Smart parking integration with FASTag wallets. Shri Nitin Gadkari’s Vision: Highways of Tomorrow   Union Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari has set an ambitious roadmap: Vision 2047: Future highways will be green, smart, and integrated with multi-modal logistics hubs. Bharatmala Pariyojana: 34,800 km of new expressways, including electric vehicle (EV)-ready corridors. Nagpur as India’s logistics capital, leveraging MIHAN (Multi-Modal International Hub) for seamless freight movement. “Our goal is to rival U.S. highways in efficiency while leading in sustainability with ethanol, hydrogen, and electric mobility.” — Nitin Gadkari. Challenges & the Road Ahead   While the future is promising, key hurdles remain: Interoperability: Ensuring GNSS/ANPR works across states and operators. Data Security: Protecting user privacy in GPS-based tolling. Rural Awareness: Expanding digital toll literacy beyond urban centers. Call to Action: Join the Mobility Revolution The ITS India Forum is driving this transformation through: Policy advocacy for next-gen tolling standards. Pilot projects like Bengaluru’s CV2X ambulance corridors (38% faster emergency response). Global collaborations, including the Road User Charging (RUC) Alliance for congestion pricing. Conclusion: A Highway Renaissance   From FASTag’s cashless convenience to AI-driven, barrier-free highways, India’s mobility landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace. Under Shri Nitin Gadkari’s leadership, we are not just building roads—we are crafting an intelligent, inclusive, and sustainable transport future. “The highways of tomorrow will be invisible—seamless, smart, and sustainable. And India will lead this revolution.” — Akhilesh Srivastava

Top 7 Benefits of Sustainable Infrastructure for Communities and the Planet As the world grapples with the dual challenges of rapid urbanization and climate change, the concept of sustainable infrastructure is gaining momentum. Unlike traditional development methods, green infrastructure focuses on building systems that are environmentally responsible, economically viable, and socially inclusive. From eco-friendly roads and energy-efficient buildings to integrated water systems and renewable energy installations — sustainable infrastructure is reshaping how we design, build, and live in our spaces.Let’s explore the top 7 benefits of sustainable infrastructure for both communities and the planet: 1. Reduces Environmental Impact One of the most significant benefits of sustainable infrastructure is its positive impact on the environment. Green buildings and infrastructure projects use fewer natural resources, emit less carbon dioxide, and help reduce pollution. For instance, using recycled construction materials, solar panels, rainwater harvesting systems, and green roofs minimizes the ecological footprint of new developments. Result: Lower greenhouse gas emissions, improved air and water quality, and better conservation of ecosystems. 2. Promotes Energy Efficiency and Conservation Sustainable infrastructure often incorporates renewable energy sources like solar, wind, or geothermal power. Green buildings are designed to be energy-efficient, using insulation, smart lighting systems, and natural ventilation to reduce dependency on fossil fuels.Result: Long-term energy savings for homeowners, businesses, and governments while reducing reliance on non-renewable resources. 3. Enhances Public Health Traditional infrastructure often leads to pollution, overcrowded urban areas, and a lack of green spaces — all of which negatively affect public health. In contrast, sustainable infrastructure promotes cleaner air and water, more walkable communities, better waste management, and increased access to nature.Result: Lower rates of respiratory diseases, mental health benefits from green spaces, and an overall improved quality of life. 4. Builds Climate Resilience Sustainable infrastructure is designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, such as floods, droughts, and heatwaves, which are becoming more frequent due to climate change. Features like permeable pavements, rain gardens, and efficient drainage systems help cities adapt and remain functional during environmental stresses. Result: Reduced damage during natural disasters and faster recovery after extreme weather events. 5. Drives Economic Growth Investing in sustainable infrastructure creates green jobs, boosts local economies, and attracts environmentally conscious investors and businesses. Over time, maintenance costs are also lower due to durable, high-quality construction and resource-efficient systems. Result: A sustainable economy that supports long-term prosperity while protecting the environment. 6. Improves Social Equity and Inclusion Sustainable infrastructure projects often prioritize access and inclusivity. For example, designing public transport systems that reach underserved areas or developing housing projects with energy-efficient features ensures that all community members benefit — not just the affluent. Result: Reduced inequality and improved living standards for marginalized populations. 7. Enhances Community Engagement and Awareness Green infrastructure projects typically involve local stakeholders in the planning and development stages. This encourages community involvement, fosters environmental awareness, and builds a sense of shared responsibility. Result: Stronger, more connected communities with a collective commitment to sustainability. Conclusion Sustainable infrastructure is not just a buzzword — it’s a necessity for building a better future. As cities expand and resources become more scarce, it is critical to adopt solutions that protect our environment while supporting economic and social development. The transition to sustainable infrastructure benefits not only the planet but also the people who call it home.By embracing these green alternatives, governments, businesses, and communities can create healthier, more resilient, and more inclusive places to live and thrive.

Akhilesh Srivastava’s TEDx Talk: How Technology Can Save Millions of Lives on India’s Roads In a deeply moving TEDx talk, Akhilesh Srivastava, a leading voice in road safety and smart mobility, shared a truth that has haunted him for three decades: “Every family is waiting for someone to return home.” This simple yet devastating realization struck him years ago at the site of a horrific road crash—a moment that reshaped his life’s purpose. Since then, his mission has been clear: Not just to make transportation faster But to ensure that every journey ends safely India’s Road Safety Crisis: A Silent Epidemic India records over 1.8 lakh road fatalities every year—a staggering 1.5 million lives lost in the last decade alone. These aren’t just numbers; they represent fathers, mothers, children, and dreams cut short. What makes this tragedy even more painful? Most of these deaths were avoidable. Srivastava argues that road crashes are not “accidents”—they are the direct result of systemic failures: Poor road design Lack of enforcement Low public awareness Weak accountability The Turning Point: From Grief to Action Standing at that crash site years ago, Srivastava realized that technology could be the game-changer in preventing such tragedies. At TEDx, he shared how innovation can turn helplessness into hope: AI-Powered Collision Alerts – Giving drivers critical extra seconds to react and avoid crashes. Smart Traffic Management – Using real-time data to prevent congestion and reckless driving. Intelligent School & Pedestrian Zones – Protecting the most vulnerable with automated speed checks and alerts. Predictive Analytics – Identifying high-risk zones before disasters happen. The Power of Collaboration: Policy + Technology = Lives Saved Srivastava emphasized that we already have the tools—what’s missing is: Political Will – Making road safety a national priority. Public Awareness – Changing behavior through education. Public-Private Partnerships – Bringing together governments, tech firms, and citizens. “Miracles happen when ambition meets execution,” he said. Countries like Sweden and the Netherlands have drastically reduced fatalities through smart policies and technology—India can too. Beyond Rules: Road Safety is a Matter of Empathy Srivastava’s most powerful message? Road safety isn’t just about laws—it’s about humanity. Every speeding vehicle carries someone’s loved one. Every ignored helmet means a family’s world could shatter. Every reckless driver is gambling with lives beyond their own. A Call to Action: Who Will You Save? If you’ve ever: Lost someone in a road crash Had a near-miss on the road Believed in a future where no family waits in vain —This is your fight too. Akhilesh Srivastava’s TEDx talk is more than a speech—it’s a blueprint for saving millions.

ITS India Forum Joins ITS Asia Pacific Forum: Advancing India’s Role in Smart Mobility The ITS India Forum has been unanimously accepted as a member of the esteemed ITS Asia Pacific Forum, marking a significant step forward in India’s integration into the region’s leading intelligent transportation network. This development marks a pivotal moment in India’s intelligent transportation evolution, effectively linking the country’s vast and dynamic mobility ecosystem with the Asia-Pacific region’s premier intelligent transport network. India, with the second-largest road network globally and now ranked as the third-largest automobile market, is emerging as a major global force in the mobility sector. This strategic partnership is set to fast-track India’s transport innovation by providing access to global best practices, fostering regional collaboration, and unlocking unparalleled opportunities for growth and development. A Strategic Boost to India’s Evolving Mobility Landscape With rapid expansion in both infrastructure and vehicle population, India’s inclusion in the ITS Asia Pacific Forum comes at a crucial time. The nation’s highway network continues to grow at an impressive pace, reflecting its increasing significance in the global mobility economy. “India, home to the world’s second-largest road network and third-largest vehicle market, stands as a major global force in the mobility sector,” said Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava, President of ITS India Forum. “Becoming part of the ITS Asia Pacific Forum enables us to harness our strengths to drive transformative advancements in India’s transportation systems.” This membership gives India a seat at the table in regional ITS strategy discussions, allowing the nation’s unique challenges and innovations to influence the development of future intelligent transportation policies across the Asia-Pacific region. Key Benefits for India’s Mobility Ecosystem   1. ) Access to Global Best Practices Indian stakeholders now have access to global advancements in Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), including smart infrastructure, autonomous mobility, and next-generation traffic management solutions. These insights will help fast-track the deployment of effective mobility solutions across the country. 2.) Enhanced Collaboration and Partnerships The forum offers a robust platform for Indian entities to collaborate with international governments, corporations, and research institutions. This will facilitate joint ventures, pilot programs, and knowledge-sharing that can drive innovation and scale up local solutions. 3.) Technology Exchange and Innovation Indian experts will now participate in cross-border technology exchanges, contributing local innovations and integrating cutting-edge solutions such as AI-based traffic optimization, connected vehicle platforms, and smart city mobility tools. 4.) Influence in Global Policy Development By participating in high-level discussions, India will help co-create policies and standards that align global best practices with local needs, fostering a balanced and sustainable transportation framework. “This membership represents a pivotal milestone in the evolution of India’s Intelligent Transportation Systems landscape,” stated the ITS India Forum. “It opens new avenues for innovation, learning, and global cooperation that will define the future of transport in India.” India Set to Make a Mark at ITS Asia-Pacific Congress 2025 in Suwon, South Korea The ITS India Forum is preparing to lead a high-level Indian delegation to the 20th ITS Asia-Pacific Congress, scheduled for May 27–30, 2025, in Suwon, South Korea. This international forum will spotlight cutting-edge mobility technologies and sustainable transport solutions, including electric and hydrogen-powered vehicles. A key highlight of India’s participation will be a keynote address by Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava, centered on inclusive, sustainable, and future-ready mobility. He will unveil a strategic roadmap aimed at transforming India’s transportation landscape through innovations like Mobility as a Service (MaaS), connected vehicle technologies, dynamic road pricing models, and sustainable energy solutions. The Indian delegation will also actively engage in discussions on global collaboration, technology co-development, and bilateral pilot projects, reinforcing India’s commitment to shaping and adopting global ITS advancements. Driving the Future of Smart Mobility Through Global Collaboration India’s induction as the 12th member of the ITS Asia Pacific Forum marks a landmark step that will accelerate the country’s progress toward next-generation mobility solutions. With direct access to global networks of expertise, India can adopt proven technologies, skip redundant development cycles, and achieve faster implementation of solutions in areas like: Smart traffic and signal management Autonomous and connected transportation Real-time traveler information systems Scalable MaaS platforms Moreover, this move positions India not just as a beneficiary but also as a contributor to the global ITS narrative. The country’s experiences with high-volume road networks and complex urban mobility offer valuable insights for peers across the Asia-Pacific region. “Suwon 2025 represents a step toward deeper global cooperation for a connected, sustainable future,” said Mr. Akhilesh Srivastava. “India is prepared to lead, learn, and collaborate internationally to shape the future of intelligent transportation.” Looking Ahead: India to Feature at ITS World Congress 2025 in Atlanta, USA Strengthening its global presence, the ITS India Forum also announced plans to lead a sizable Indian delegation to the ITS World Congress in Atlanta, USA, from August 24–28, 2025. A dedicated “ITS India Pavilion” will be set up to showcase India’s home-grown innovations, start-ups, and industry leaders in the smart mobility space. Conclusion: A New Era of Intelligent Transport for India India’s inclusion in the ITS Asia Pacific Forum ushers in a new era of strategic collaboration, technological exchange, and strengthened global leadership in intelligent mobility. This alliance will empower India to deploy next-gen ITS solutions—from digital tolling and smart city traffic systems to green mobility initiatives—while aligning with global best practices. By embracing this collaborative vision, India is poised to revolutionize its transportation ecosystem, enhance commuter safety, reduce congestion, and build a more sustainable, inclusive, and intelligent future of mobility.

Revolutionizing India’s Transportation with Intelligent Mobility Solutions The Urgent Need for Smarter Mobility Systems At the recent NTRO International Technical Conference 2025 in Melbourne, ITS India President Akhilesh Srivastava spoke about how Intelligent Transport Systems in India are contributing to safer, smarter outcomes by addressing the nation’s critical mobility challenges. As India’s urban population surges and vehicle ownership grows exponentially, our transportation infrastructure faces unprecedented strain. With over 172,000 road fatalities annually and economic losses exceeding ₹3.14 lakh crore due to congestion, the status quo is no longer sustainable. The solution lies in Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) – where technology meets transportation to create safer, greener and more efficient mobility networks. Having recently represented India at this global forum, I witnessed firsthand how nations are leveraging ITS to transform their transport ecosystems. As highlighted in my presentation, India’s journey in this space, while challenging, presents tremendous opportunities for innovation at scale through strategic deployment of ITS solutions. 1.) Creating the Policy Framework The ITS India Forum has played a pivotal role in developing India’s first National ITS Policy, which will soon be unveiled. This comprehensive framework: Integrates proven global approaches while tackling India’s unique issues. Establishes standards for interoperability across states and cities Creates funding mechanisms for large-scale ITS deployments 2.) Groundbreaking Pilot Projects In my Melbourne address, I showcased how we’re implementing cutting-edge solutions across diverse scenarios: For Safety: AI-powered Driver Assistance Systems reducing accidents by up to 60% V2X Communication networks preventing 80% of preventable crashes National Safe Driving Score Program incentivizing better driver behavior For Efficiency: Smart Traffic Management Systems reducing congestion by 30-40% in pilot cities Predictive Analytics for Highway Maintenance cutting repair costs by 25% Integrated Multi-Modal Transit Hubs improving first/last mile connectivity For Sustainability: EV Charging Corridors along major highways Dynamic Tolling Systems reducing idling and emissions Freight Optimization Platforms cutting empty truck runs by 35% The Road Safety Emergency – Our Tech-Driven Response As highlighted in my conference presentation, India accounts for 11% of global road fatalities, even though it possesses only 1% of the world’s vehicles. Our Road Safety 2.0 Initiative tackles this through: 1.) Preventive Technologies: Automatic braking through ADAS results in 50-60% fewer rear-end crashes. Lane keeping systems contribute to a 30-50% decrease in lane-change accidents. AI-powered black spots identification and remediation 2.) Enforcement 2.0: Automated traffic violation detection systems Blockchain-enabled driver license and vehicle records Predictive policing using accident pattern analysis 3.) Emergency Response: GPS-enabled crash notification systems Drone-based medical supply delivery to accident sites Hospital preparedness mapping using historical data Building an ITS Ecosystem for India’s Future Beyond technology deployment, we’re focused on: Capacity Building: Establishing ITS Centers of Excellence at IITs and NITs nationwide Certification programs for over 50,000 ITS professionals by 2030 Industry Collaboration: Public-private partnerships for ITS infrastructure Startup incubation for mobility innovations Global Knowledge Sharing: India to host the ITS World Congress in 2027 Publishing the ITS Practitioner’s Journal for case studies and research Smart Mobility as the Way Forward for Viksit Bharat As I shared with global delegates in Melbourne, our work towards the Viksit Bharat 2047 vision positions ITS as the backbone of: 50+ Smart Cities with seamless mobility integration 10,000+ km of Intelligent Highways with connected vehicle infrastructure Targeting a 50% decrease in road deaths by 2030 The transformation requires collective effort – government agencies, private sector, academia and citizens must come together. The ITS India Forum remains committed to driving this change through innovation, collaboration and execution excellence. The future of mobility isn’t just about moving people – it’s about moving India forward.

C-V2X Toll Payments: How Indra, Audi, and Qualcomm Are Redefining Connected Mobility The transportation sector is on the brink of a revolution, and toll payments are at the forefront of this transformation. In a landmark collaboration, Indra, Audi, and Qualcomm have unveiled a Cellular Vehicle-to-Everything (C-V2X) toll payment system that promises to eliminate the inefficiencies of traditional toll collection. This breakthrough, demonstrated at the OmniAir Consortium Plugfest on May 9, 2025, at Florida’s SunTrax Test Facility, is set to redefine how drivers interact with toll infrastructure—making payments seamless, secure, and entirely automated. The Problem with Traditional Tolling Today’s tolling systems are fragmented and cumbersome. Drivers rely on a patchwork of transponders, mobile apps, and license plate recognition, leading to: Incompatibility issues(e.g., E-ZPass not working in Texas) Congestion at toll plazasdue to slowdowns for gantry scans Billing errorsfrom misreads or outdated systems. For toll operators, the challenges are equally daunting. Maintaining roadside gantries, transponder inventory, and video tolling systems is costly, while manual exception processing (e.g., unpaid tolls) adds administrative burdens. How C-V2X Solves These Challenges The SAE J3217 C-V2X standard—backed by Indra, Audi, and Qualcomm—enables direct, real-time communication between vehicles and toll infrastructure. Here’s how it works: Precise Vehicle Identification Unlike RFID transponders or cameras, C-V2X pinpoints a vehicle’s location at the lane level, reducing misbilling. Vehicles broadcast a secure identifier, ensuring only authorized users are charged. Seamless In-Car Payments As drivers approach a toll zone, their dashboard displays real-time toll rates, payment options, and confirmation prompts. Transactions are processed automatically, eliminating the need for physical stops or manual app inputs. Nationwide Interoperability The system is designed to work across all U.S. toll roads, ending the era of region-specific transponders. Beyond Tolling: The Future of In-Car Payments While tolling is the first application, the implications are far broader: Parking:Vehicles could auto-pay for parking via geofenced zones. Road Usage Charges:Mileage-based fees could replace gas taxes. Drive-Through & Fuel Payments:Cars could become digital wallets, paying for services without driver intervention. Raul Ripio, Indra’s SVP of Mobility & Technology, envisions a future where “cars become motorists’ wallets”, handling everything from tolls to coffee purchases. Benefits for Toll Operators The shift to C-V2X offers agencies significant advantages: Lower Operational Costs:Reduced reliance on gantries, cameras, and transponders slashes infrastructure expenses. Fewer Errors:Lane-level accuracy minimizes billing disputes. Scalability:The system supports dynamic pricing models (e.g., congestion-based tolls). The Technology Behind the Breakthrough This collaboration leverages the strengths of three industry leaders: Indra– Provides the tolling backend and infrastructure expertise. Audi– Integrates C-V2X into production vehicles, ensuring a seamless driver experience. Qualcomm– Supplies advanced C-V2X chipsets for secure, low-latency communication. The OmniAir Plugfest demo showcased these capabilities in action, with live tests confirming: Instant toll confirmations Accurate vehicle identification Robust performance in real-world conditions. Regulatory and Industry Adoption For C-V2X tolling to go mainstream, two hurdles remain: Regulatory Alignment:Federal and state agencies must endorse the SAE J3217 standard. Automaker Buy-In:More manufacturers need to embed C-V2X in vehicles. However, the U.S. is well-positioned to lead this shift, with pilot programs already underway in Florida and Texas. What’s Next? The SunTrax demonstration was just the beginning. Indra, Audi, and Qualcomm plan to: Expand trials to major U.S. toll corridors(e.g., I-95, SR 400). Integrate with smart city initiatives, enabling broader V2X applications like emergency vehicle alerts. Conclusion: A Connected Mobility Revolution The Indra-Audi-Qualcomm partnership marks a turning point in transportation. By merging tolling, payments, and vehicle connectivity, they’re paving the way for a future where roads are smarter, safer, and frictionless. As Rodrigo Castiñeira, Indra’s Head of Mobility Innovation, noted during the Plugfest: “This isn’t just about tolls—it’s about reimagining how vehicles interact with the world.”. With real-world validation now complete, the race is on to deploy C-V2X at scale. For drivers, toll operators, and smart cities alike, the connected future is arriving—one seamless payment at a time.

Transforming Road Safety in India: How Tech Can Save Thousands of Lives A Wake-Up Call: India’s Road Safety Crisis Demands Bold Action Every year, over 1.8 lakh lives are lost on Indian roads—equivalent to a mid-sized city wiped out. Human error contributes to 80% of these accidents, making road safety not just a policy issue but a national emergency. On 1st May, India took a decisive step toward change at the Road Safety Brainstorming Conference, chaired by Hon’ble Union Minister Shri Nitin Gadkari, along with key stakeholders—transport officials, police chiefs, trauma experts, and tech innovators. The message was clear: India must shift from reactive measures to a tech-driven, preventive approach. As a speaker at the session on “Driver Training, Licensing & Policies,” I presented AI-powered solutions that could revolutionize road safety—saving thousands of lives. Here’s how. Why Fines & Penalties Aren’t Enough: The Case for Positive Reinforcement Traditional enforcement—traffic fines, penalties, and awareness campaigns—has had limited success. Why? Because fear doesn’t always change behavior—but incentives do. The Game-Changer: Safe Driving Scores (SDS) Powered by IoT & AI My presentation focused on a data-driven, behavioral approach to road safety: Real-Time Driver Monitoring– IoT devices in vehicles track speeding, harsh braking, rapid acceleration, and seatbelt usage, converting this data into a Safe Driving Score (SDS). Gamifying Safety– Just like a credit score encourages financial discipline, SDS motivates drivers to improve. A World Economic Forum (WEF) pilot proved this method reduces accidents by up to 30%. Licensing & Fleet Safety– Link SDS to driver’s licenses—only those with safe scores can renew. Fleet operators can reward top drivers, reducing crashes. Insurance & Enforcement– Discounts for safe drivers, while traffic police use AI dashboards to identify high-risk drivers for targeted training. Key Takeaways from the Conference: A 360-Degree Road Safety Blueprint 1. AI-Powered Black Spot Identification Predictive analytics can redesign high-risk zones. Example: Tamil Nadu reduced accidents by 40% using data-driven road modifications. 2. Strengthening School Zone Safety Japan’s model (speed cameras, flashing signs) cut child fatalities by 60%. Proposal: Include School Zone Safety under District Road Safety Committees. 3. Golden Hour Trauma Care Reforms AIIMS experts stressed drone-assisted ambulances for rural areas. Odisha’s “108 Ambulance” reduced trauma deaths by 30%. 4. AI-Based Digital Enforcement Automated Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) & AI challans reduce corruption. Delhi’s AI traffic cameras cut violations by 25%. 5. Reward-Based Systems Work Better Than Punishment Fuel vouchers, insurance discounts, and public recognition for safe drivers. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) warn drivers of collisions in real-time. Hon’ble Minister Gadkari’s Vision: From “Zero Tolerance” to “Zero Fatalities” Shri Nitin Gadkari’s leadership was evident—he chaired every session, demanding disruptive, scalable solutions. His call for a National Action Plan for Road Safety aligns with global success stories: UK’s “Vision Zero” cut deaths by 40% in a decade through automated enforcement. Sweden’s “Safe System” (better roads, speed management) reduced fatalities by 50% since 2000. India must adopt a similar multi-pronged strategy: Stricter licensing tied to Safe Driving Scores (SDS) AI cameras & IoT-based enforcement Smart infrastructure (pedestrian-first roads, crash-proof designs) Nationwide trauma care networks The Road Ahead: A National Mission for Safer Highways To turn intent into impact, India needs: A centralized National Road Safety Missionwith real-time crash analytics. Public-private partnershipsto scale IoT-based driver monitoring. A rewards ecosystem—safe drivers get insurance discounts, fuel benefits, and recognition. The 1st May conference marked a turning point. Now, execution is key. With technology, policy alignment, and collective action, India can halve road deaths in five years—and emerge as a global leader in road safety. Let’s Drive Change—One Safe Mile at a Time.What’s your take? Should India adopt a Safe Driving Score system? 

India’s EV Market Snapshot 2023–2024: Growth, Innovation & Road to a Sustainable Future The Indian electric vehicle (EV) market is undergoing a transformative journey, firmly establishing itself as a significant player in the global transition towards sustainable mobility. As we delve into the period spanning 2023-2024, we find a landscape filled with exhilarating growth statistics, groundbreaking technological advancements, and enhanced global visibility through significant events like the much-anticipated RideAsia EV Expo 2025. The following analysis captures the key highlights that point towards a promising future for the EV industry in India. A Surge in EV Sales and Market Penetration The fiscal year 2023–2024 has seen the Indian EV industry achieving groundbreaking milestones, with 30 lakh (3 million) electric vehicles sold, marking a 45% year-on-year increase in sales. This impressive growth has allowed EVs to comprise approximately 6.4% of the overall vehicle market, reflecting heightened consumer confidence and robust governmental and industry support structures that foster such adoption. The Two-Wheeler Revolution Leading this transformation is the electric two-wheeler segment, which now makes up an impressive 56% of all two-wheeler sales. The formidable growth in this sector has been catalyzed by the concerted efforts of over 400 startups, all innovating to meet the rising demand for affordable and sustainable personal mobility solutions. This shift not only indicates growing consumer preference but also showcases the entrepreneurial spirit that defines India’s path toward a greener future. Future of the EV Market: Ambitious Yet Achievable India’s vision for its EV landscape in the coming years is marked by ambitious yet achievable goals. The trajectory suggests: Market growth that could reach ₹20 lakh crore (approximately $2.4 trillion) by 2030. The potential to generate 5 crore (50 million) new jobs across various sectors linked to electric mobility. A target for EVs and hybrids to achieve an 8% market penetration by 2028. Growth in the EV financing sector to around ₹4 lakh crore (~$48 billion). Discovery of 6 million tonnes of lithium reserves in Jammu & Kashmir, sufficient to support the production of up to 60 crore EVs. Lithium-ion battery lifecycle costs have declined to $115 per kWh, with projections indicating a drop below $100 in the near future. The battery recycling market is anticipated to reach a valuation of ₹50,000 crore (around $6 billion) by 2030. EV Charging Technology: Innovation at Full Throttle As the number of electric vehicles on the road increases, emphasis on developing EV charging infrastructure has gained momentum. India’s EV charging market is projected to reach ₹70,000 crore (approximately $8 billion) by 2025. Startups such as Clean Electric are leading innovations in this space, unveiling 15-minute universal and interoperable charging solutions that enhance convenience and accessibility for EV users. This progress underscores the critical need for effective charging solutions as EV adoption accelerates. Spotlight on RideAsia EV Expo 2025 A major highlight in the EV industry calendar is the upcoming RideAsia EV Expo 2025, set to be a transformative event for the sector. Event Overview Over 300 exhibitors showcasing innovations. More than 20,000 trade visitors expected. Participation from 10+ countries, enhancing international collaboration. Vehicle Highlights The expo will feature launches from various segments including two-wheelers, three-wheelers, four-wheelers, e-tractors, and utility vehicles. Notable models expected to be unveiled include: Khalsa EV’s L5 model impresses with a powerful range of 203 kilometers on a single charge. Citius introduces electric tractors engineered to handle loads ranging from 2 to 5 tons. Key Focus Areas The expo aims to address critical areas, including: Innovations in battery technology and fast-charging solutions. A significant focus on sustainability while striving for carbon footprint reduction. In-depth conversations surrounding policy frameworks and investment opportunities within the EV ecosystem. Conclusion In summary, India’s EV market presents an electrifying vision of the future, characterized by robust growth, innovation, and strategic planning that promises to reshape the transportation landscape. With a dynamic startup ecosystem, supportive government policies, and an increasingly aware consumer base, India is poised to be a global leader in the electric mobility revolution. The future of transportation is sustainable, and India is firmly in the driver’s seat.