Why Odisha Government Prefers Tata, Mahindra and Maruti EVs for Official Use

Odisha Government Issues EV Procurement Guidelines for Official Use

Keeping in view the fuel crisis arising from the West Asia conflict and the growing burden of fuel expenditure on the state exchequer, the Odisha Government has taken a major decision. While the government had earlier decided to promote the use of electric vehicles (EVs) for official purposes, the Finance Department has now issued detailed guidelines in this regard. The new rules came into effect from June 1.

According to the guidelines, maximum budget limits have been fixed for the purchase of EVs for different categories of government functionaries.

For the Governor, Chief Minister, Chief Justice of the High Court, other judges, and ministers, EVs costing up to ₹30 lakh may be purchased.

Similarly, for the Chief Secretary, Development Commissioner, Agriculture Production Commissioner, Principal Secretaries/Secretaries of various departments, and officers of equivalent rank, EVs costing up to ₹25 lakh may be procured.

In addition, the guidelines specify a maximum expenditure of ₹20 lakh for vehicles meant for District Judges, District Collectors, and Superintendents of Police (SPs).

All new EV purchases will require prior approval and concurrence from the Finance Department. Furthermore, a new vehicle can be purchased only after the existing vehicle completes its prescribed service life and is declared for scrapping or condemnation.

Key Highlights

• ₹30 lakh cap for ministers, judges, Governor, and Chief Minister.

• ₹25 lakh cap for senior bureaucrats and departmental secretaries.

• ₹20 lakh cap for District Collectors, SPs, and District Judges.

The guidelines further state that the government will procure EVs only from Indian manufacturers Tata Motors, Mahindra, and Maruti Suzuki.

From June 1 onwards, except in emergency or exceptional circumstances, no new petrol or diesel vehicles can be purchased for official government use. The move is aimed at reducing fuel dependency, cutting government expenditure, and promoting cleaner transportation across the state administration.

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Why Only Indian EV Manufacturers?

Amid global economic uncertainty, supply chain disruptions, and rising fuel costs triggered by geopolitical tensions in West Asia, the Odisha Government has chosen to procure EVs only from Indian manufacturers such as Tata Motors, Mahindra, and Maruti Suzuki. The move is aimed at supporting domestic industry, reducing dependence on imports, ensuring reliable after-sales service, and keeping government spending within the Indian economy.