Delhi Government Offers Rs50 Lakh for Pollution Control Solutions for Heavy Vehicles
Delhi government is launching a significant competition, offering a top prize of ₹50 lakh for effective retrofit solutions to help reduce pollution from heavy vehicles. This initiative is being introduced as the capital prepares for a ban on BS-IV diesel heavy vehicles entering its limits from November 1. Officials stated that the goal is to support pollution control through technological advancement rather than solely relying on enforcement measures.
A directive from the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) will prevent BS-IV heavy vehicles from entering Delhi starting November 1. Authorities explained that this competition aims to provide a platform for engineers and researchers to develop cost-effective clean mobility solutions. Projects that initially qualify will receive ₹5 lakh to support their work. Technologies that are proven effective and receive certification from the National Physical Laboratory can then secure the grand prize of ₹50 lakh. This approach seeks to encourage new ways to upgrade older trucks to cleaner BS-VI emission standards, making it more feasible for vehicle owners.
In parallel, the city government is also backing research focused on converting diesel cars into electric vehicles as part of its wider strategy for cleaner transport. Additionally, Delhi has announced the “Industrial Ideathon 2025,” an event scheduled to begin next month. This ideathon aims to gather student-led solutions for industrial growth and various urban challenges. The Delhi State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (DSIIDC), in collaboration with Netaji Subhas University of Technology (NSUT), is organizing the event. Registrations are open from July 14 to August 4 via the official portal.
The Ideathon will be conducted in two phases. A preliminary round is set for August 13-14 at NSUT, where shortlisted teams will undertake a timed challenge. Finalists will compete in the grand finale between August 18 and 20, presenting their solutions to a panel of industry experts. Ideas will be judged across four key areas: logistics and supply chain, ease of doing business for startups, advanced technologies for industrial transformation, and strengthening the MSME sector. Each team is required to have two to four members, with at least one female participant. Over 120 teams from more than 30 institutions are expected to participate, contributing their talent to address industrial problems and foster the city’s growth.
