GoI Launches Pilot Projects for Hydrogen-Fuelled Vehicles Under NHGM.
National
In March 2025, the Government of India (GoI) launched five pilot projects to deploy hydrogen-fuelled buses and trucks under the National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM). This initiative aims to promote clean energy in the transport sector and reduce carbon emissions.
- The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) had issued guidelines in February 2025 for implementing pilot projects in the transport sector under NGHM. These guidelines outline the framework for hydrogen-based vehicle trials and refuelling infrastructure development.
- MNRE has approved five pilot projects involving 37 vehicles, including both trucks and buses. These projects will also establish nine hydrogen refuelling stations to support the operation of hydrogen-fuelled vehicles.
- The trial includes 15 hydrogen fuel cell-based vehicles and 22 hydrogen internal combustion engine-based vehicles. These vehicles will be tested on ten different routes across India, including Greater Noida - Delhi - Agra, Bhubaneswar - Konark - Puri, Ahmedabad - Vadodara - Surat, and several others.
Main Point :- (i) Several major companies have been awarded these projects, including TATA Motors Limited (TML), Reliance Industries Limited (RIL), National Thermal Power Corporation (NTPC) Limited, Ashok Leyland, Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), and Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL).
(ii) The GoI has allocated financial support of ₹2.08 billion for these projects, which are expected to be completed within 18 to 24 months. The pilot projects will assess the feasibility, safety, and economic viability of hydrogen-powered mobility in India.
(iii) The National Green Hydrogen Mission (NGHM) was launched in January 2023 by MNRE with an outlay of ₹19,744 crores up to the Financial Year 2029-30. The mission aims to decarbonize the economy, reduce fossil fuel dependency, and position India as a leader in green hydrogen technology and market development.
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