The Indian government has launched pilot projects to introduce hydrogen-fuel-powered buses and trucks, aiming to promote clean energy and make the logistics sector more sustainable. This initiative falls under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, where these vehicles will be tested across 10 different routes.
Let’s understand the purpose of this initiative and what it means for investors.
What’s Happening?
Under the National Green Hydrogen Mission, the government has rolled out five pilot projects for hydrogen-fueled buses and trucks. The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) announced this initiative on March 3, 2025. As part of the plan, 37 hydrogen-powered vehicles (buses and trucks) — including 15 fuel cell-based vehicles and 22 internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles — will be deployed across 10 routes nationwide. Additionally, nine hydrogen refueling stations will be set up.
This move marks a significant step toward clean energy adoption in India and will help reduce carbon emissions in the logistics sector.
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Mission Objective
The primary goal of the National Green Hydrogen Mission is to encourage the use of hydrogen as fuel in buses and trucks while strengthening infrastructure like hydrogen refueling stations.
Through these pilot projects, the mission aims to gradually promote the use of green hydrogen in commercial vehicles. The initiative will test the safe and efficient operation of hydrogen-powered vehicles and refueling stations, paving the way for their widespread adoption.
What’s in it for Investors?
The hydrogen-powered bus and truck pilot projects have been assigned to some of the country’s leading companies, including Tata Motors, Reliance Industries Ltd, NTPC, ANERT, Ashok Leyland, HPCL, BPCL, and IOCL. These companies have been entrusted with successfully implementing the initiative.
The Indian government has allocated Rs 208 crore in financial support for these pilot projects, which are expected to become fully operational within the next 18-24 months.
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What’s Next?
On January 4, 2023, the Indian government launched the National Green Hydrogen Mission, setting a budget of Rs 19,744 crore for the initiative until the 2029-30 financial year. This mission is expected to play a crucial role in making India self-reliant through clean energy while serving as a global model for energy transition.
This initiative will contribute to decarbonising the country’s economic framework, reducing dependence on fossil fuel imports, and positioning India as a leader in green hydrogen technology and markets.
*The companies mentioned in the article are for information purposes only. This is not an investment advice.
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