"Union Cabinet Approves ₹1.02 Lakh Crore for EVs, Rural Connectivity, and Ayushman Bharat Expansion"

The Union Cabinet on Wednesday approved a comprehensive package aimed at boosting electric vehicle adoption (excluding cars), improving rural connectivity, and enhancing hydropower generation. The measures also include a significant expansion of the Ayushman Bharat scheme, extending healthcare coverage to approximately 6 crore senior citizens over the age of 70. The total cost of these initiatives is expected to exceed ₹1.02 lakh crore.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the government's commitment to providing accessible and affordable healthcare. "Today, the Cabinet has decided to expand the scope of Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY to ensure health coverage for all citizens above 70 years of age, ensuring dignity, care, and security for 6 crore people," he said.

Information and Broadcasting Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw announced the launch of a new scheme, PM Electric Drive Revolution in Innovative Vehicle Enhancement (PM E-DRIVE), to promote the use of electric vehicles across various sectors. The scheme, which excludes cars, will support two-wheelers, three-wheelers, hybrid ambulances, trucks, and electric buses. It includes 100% support for developing charging infrastructure at 88,500 sites, as well as funding for testing and standardization facilities.

With a budget of ₹10,900 crore over two years, PM E-DRIVE introduces an Aadhaar-authenticated e-voucher system to facilitate the purchase of electric vehicles. Buyers will receive a digital voucher to be signed and submitted to dealers for demand incentives. The voucher will also be used by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to claim reimbursement, ensuring transparency in the process, according to an official statement.

HBL