India has released draft guidelines introducing a Battery Pack Aadhaar Number (BPAN), a unique 21-character identity for EV and large industrial batteries. The system will ensure lifecycle traceability from manufacturing to recycling, enhance safety, and support sustainability, marking a major step in strengthening India’s electric mobility framework.
India’s Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has unveiled draft guidelines for a Battery Pack Aadhaar system, designed to assign every EV battery a unique digital identity. Much like Aadhaar for citizens, this initiative seeks to track batteries across their entire lifecycle, ensuring transparency, safety, and accountability in the rapidly expanding electric vehicle sector.
Key highlights from the announcement include
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Each EV and large industrial battery will be assigned a 21-character Battery Pack Aadhaar Number (BPAN).
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The BPAN will be accompanied by a QR code, storing static details such as manufacturer identity, battery chemistry, and capacity.
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Battery producers and importers must upload all relevant data to a centralized BPAN portal.
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The guidelines prioritize EV batteries, which account for nearly 90 percent of India’s lithium-ion demand.
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Industrial batteries above 2 kWh will also be covered, excluding SLI (Starting, Lighting, Ignition) and portable batteries.
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The BPAN must be placed in a visible and accessible location on the battery pack.
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The system aims to improve recycling and disposal processes, reducing environmental risks.
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Authorities emphasize that the framework will enhance consumer confidence and support India’s sustainability goals.
The introduction of BPAN reflects India’s commitment to building a robust EV ecosystem. By ensuring traceability, the guidelines will help prevent counterfeit batteries, improve safety standards, and streamline recycling. For manufacturers, it means stricter compliance, while for consumers, it promises greater reliability and transparency in battery usage.
Sources: Telangana Today, Financial Express, ETAuto, PV Magazine India