HyderabadThe Telangana government’s policy push for an environment-friendly mode of transport came a step closer to reality with the Transport Department, on Thursday, issuing a GO setting in motion a ₹200-crore scheme to facilitate the conversion or replacement of 18,766 petrol and diesel-powered autorickshaws with electric vehicles in the Telangana Core Urban Region Economy (CURE) area.The move is part of the Telangana Autorickshaw Electric Conversion Scheme-2026, which in turn is a part of Rajiv Yuva Vikasam. The policy envisages that autos be given a choice between retrofitting their existing vehicles with government-approved electric kits, and buying new electric autorickshaws after surrendering their old vehicles. Beneficiaries will receive financial assistance of up to ₹1.5 lakh in each case.Those opting for retrofitting can choose between fixed-battery and swappable-battery kits from empanelled manufacturers. The subsidy will cover the actual cost of the kit and installation or ₹1.5 lakh, whichever is lower. Those opting for a new electric autorickshaw will receive a flat subsidy of ₹1.5 lakh, which will be adjusted upfront against the vehicle’s on-road price.The scheme covers 11,254 diesel autorickshaws and 7,512 petrol autorickshaws operating with with permits in the CURE area.The allocated ₹200 crore will be drawn from Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Backward Classes and, Minorities Welfare Departments. Each department will contribute ₹50 crore each.The Transport Commissioner will implement the scheme through a digital software module to prevent duplicate claims and ensure transparency. The government has also made scrapping of the old vehicle or engine mandatory before assistance is released to the empanelled manufacturer or dealer.Telangana State Auto and App-based Drivers’ JAC office bearers including B Venkatesham, A Satthireddy, and M A Salim welcomed the move. They urged the immediate implementation of assurances given during recent discussions with auto and cab unions. They also sought subsidy of ₹1.5 lakh for those from weaker sections of society for buying new electric autorickshaws Published - August 27, 2026 08:35 pm IST