EV ecosystem reform: Govt proposes Aadhaar-like ID for batteries; aims to boost traceability, recycling

The ministry of road transport and highways has proposed assigning an Aadhaar-like unique identification number to electric vehicle (EV) batteries to ensure end-to-end traceability and improve recycling efficiency, according to draft guidelines issued by the ministry.Under the proposed framework, battery producers or importers will be required to assign a 21-character Battery Pack Aadhaar Number (BPAN) to every battery they introduce in the market, including those used for self-consumption, as per news agency PTI. They will also have to upload relevant Battery Pack Dynamic data on the official BPAN portal.“The battery producer or importer shall have the obligation of assigning a unique Battery Pack Aadhaar Number (BPAN) to each battery that they introduce in the market and the battery they put to self-use,” the draft guidelines said. It added that the BPAN must be placed in a “clearly visible and accessible position” and located in a way that it “cannot be destroyed or deteriorate.”As per the ‘Guidelines for Implementation of Battery Pack Aadhaar System’, the BPAN will capture and store key information throughout the battery’s lifecycle, starting from raw material extraction and manufacturing to usage, recycling or final disposal. Any change in attributes due to recycling or repurposing will require the issuance of a new BPAN by the same or a new producer or importer.The ministry said the system aims to bring greater transparency, accountability and sustainability to the battery ecosystem by enabling accurate tracking of battery performance and environmental impact. BPAN is also expected to play a key role in facilitating second-life usage, regulatory compliance and efficient recycling.Electric vehicle applications currently account for 80–90 per cent of total lithium-ion battery demand in India, far exceeding demand from industrial or non-automotive uses. While the guidelines recommend applying BPAN to industrial batteries above 2 kWh, EV batteries have been proposed as a priority segment during standard formulation, given their scale, safety implications and regulatory relevance.“This approach will ensure that the Battery Pack Aadhaar framework addresses the most impactful segment of the Indian battery ecosystem in its initial phase,” the draft said.The ministry has recommended that the framework be developed through the Automotive Industry Standard route under the Automotive Industry Standards Committee, enabling structured stakeholder consultation, technical validation and alignment with existing automotive regulations, as per PTI.