With Delhi, Maharashtra, and Chandigarh at the top of the “India Electric Mobility Index 2024,” which was announced recently by government think tank NITI Aayog and WRI India, India’s capital and industrial centres have emerged as leaders in the nation’s transition to electric mobility.

The index rates the adoption of electric vehicles, the preparedness of charging infrastructure, and the growth of innovation ecosystems in each of the 36 states and union territories.

The results position India as a possible global centre for electric mobility at a time when policy momentum is growing and EV sales are on the rise. Because of its aggressive EV policy, significant uptake of electric two- and three-wheelers, and extensive public charging network, Delhi received the highest score among the states.

With the help of entrepreneurs and an increasing number of e-mobility-related patents, the capital also leads in research and innovation.

Chandigarh and Maharashtra trailed closely behind, showcasing thorough adoption and infrastructural development initiatives.

According to the report, “these states have demonstrated not only ambition but effective implementation.” Haryana, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka were categorised as “performers,” meaning they had made strides but were still lacking in one or more areas.

Thirty additional states and union territories, including major economies like West Bengal, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh, were designated as “aspirants” in need of focused assistance.

“State leadership is crucial,” NITI Aayog member Rajiv Gauba stated. “In transportation, energy, and manufacturing, states must spearhead implementation, while national policies offer guidance.” India’s EV market has expanded quickly; in 2024, EVs will make up 7.7% of new car sales, up from 0.5% in 2018. More than 6.5 million EVs are currently on the road in the nation, and in 2024 alone, two-wheelers accounted for 59% of all EV sales.

This expansion has been supported by state-level incentives, the recently introduced PM e-DRIVE scheme, and initiatives like FAME-II. But there are still gaps in the infrastructure.

India had 25,000 public EV charging stations as of October 2024, with Delhi, Maharashtra, and Karnataka having the most. However, there are still few possibilities for quick charging, especially for business cars and in remote locations.