Karnataka Selected for 1,243 EV Chargers Under PM E-Drive Scheme
On 12 May 2026, Karnataka was selected for 1,243 EV chargers under the PM E-Drive scheme (Ministry of Heavy Industries), with an outlay of about ₹123.26 crore to expand charging infrastructure.
Karnataka was selected to receive 1,243 electric vehicle (EV) chargers under the central PM E-Drive scheme, with the decision made on 12 May 2026. The project has been approved with a financial outlay of about ₹123.26 crore. The new chargers aim to strengthen the state's EV charging network and reduce "range anxiety" — the fear among EV users of running out of battery before finding a charging point.
The PM E-Drive scheme is run by the Ministry of Heavy Industries. It promotes clean and electric transport across India by supporting the purchase of electric vehicles and the building of charging infrastructure. More charging stations make it easier for people to switch from petrol and diesel vehicles to EVs.
Karnataka has been a leader in the EV sector. It became the first Indian state to bring out a dedicated Electric Vehicle and Energy Storage Policy back in 2017. The state also has a large number of EV startups and one of the better public charging networks in the country.
For exam aspirants, the key facts are the scheme name (PM E-Drive), its ministry (Heavy Industries), and that Karnataka was the first state with a dedicated EV policy (2017).
Key Points to Remember
- Karnataka to get 1,243 EV chargers under PM E-Drive (decided 12 May 2026)
- Financial outlay: about ₹123.26 crore
- PM E-Drive scheme is run by the Ministry of Heavy Industries
- Aim: expand charging network and cut range anxiety
- Karnataka was the first state with a dedicated EV policy (2017)
Exam Relevance
Relevant for UPSC Prelims (Economy & Schemes — Electric Mobility), SSC General Awareness and State PCS.
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