PATNA – In the wake of the historic consensus among global leaders at the United Nations Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP28) to transition away from fossil fuels, Bihar has taken a giant leap towards a sustainable future with the launch of the Bihar Electric Vehicle Policy 2023. The policy, unveiled by the Bihar Transport Department last month, underscores the pivotal role of electric vehicles (EVs) in decarbonizing the transport sector.
To further this commitment, the Bihar Transport Department, in collaboration with the Bihar State Pollution Control Board (BSPCB) and WRI India, is organizing the Bihar EV Conclave on January 11 at Hotel Maurya in Patna. The conclave aims to convene key stakeholders in the electric mobility sector to discuss strategies, innovations, and policies that will drive the adoption of EVs in Bihar. As the state progresses towards implementing its EV Policy, the conclave will play a crucial role in shaping the future of sustainable transportation.
As part of the conclave, an electric vehicle expo will showcase leading firms in EV manufacturing and electric charging facilities, aiming to raise awareness about electric mobility. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore cutting-edge Lithium-ion batteries and the latest charging solutions during the event.
Transport Secretary Sanjay Kumar Agarwal said that the conclave will feature detailed discussions by subject matter experts on electric vehicle technology and EV charging infrastructure in various sessions. The event will be inaugurated by Transport Minister Sheela Kumari.
Distinguished officials from the Bihar government participating in panel discussions include Chief Secretary Amir Subhani, Development Commissioner Vivek Kumar Singh, Additional Chief Secretary of industries Sandeep Poundrik, Principal Secretary of Finance Arvind Kumar Chaudhary, Principal Secretary of Energy Sanjeev Hans, Secretary of Environment Bandana Preyashi, State Transport Secretary Dr. Ashima Jain, and Chairman of Bihar State Pollution Control Board Dr. D K Shukla, among others.
The conclave will also host insightful deliberations by senior officials from the central government, including Vishal Kapoor, CEO of Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), Sudhendu Jyoti Sinha, Adviser at NITI Aayog, and Surendra Kumar Bagde, Additional Secretary at the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
Joining the panel discussions, Ashish Kundra, Principal Secretary of Transport, Government of Delhi, and Dr. Andrew Fleming, Deputy High Commissioner to East and North East India at the British High Commission, will provide their perspectives on electric mobility.
The deliberations in the conclave will start with Madhav Pai, Chief Executive officer, WRI India delivering a special address in the inaugural session. Ulka Kelkar, Executive Director Climate Program, WRI India will make welcome remarks in the plenary session. Also, Pawan Mulukutla, Executive Director Integrated Transport, WRI India will moderate the first panel discussion on the theme of ‘Charging Ahead: Driving EV Adoption and Growth’.
Transport Secretary Agarwal emphasized that the conclave offers a unique opportunity for attendees to gain insights into the electric vehicle industry, environmentally friendly transportation facilities, EV technology, battery technology, accessories, services, and the latest updates. He said, “The transition to electric mobility is a promising strategy in the light of the rapid depletion of fossil fuel, an increase in fuel costs, and environmental pollution. This conclave will be a significant step towards eco-friendly transportation solutions.”
