National Road Safety Policy and Initiatives

2 entries over 35 days, from 22 July 2026 to 25 August 2026.

01
22 July

National Road Safety Board constitution

The National Road Safety Board has been constituted under Section 215B of the Motor Vehicles Act.
The board is mandated to provide advisory services to both Central and State governments regarding road safety.
Road fatalities in India reached 1,77,175 in 2024, according to the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
The board’s composition includes experts and officials from both Union and State governments.
The Sundar Committee (2007) originally proposed a stronger regulator with powers to conduct safety audits and prescribe standards.
The Supreme Court, in the case of S. Rajaseekaran v. Union of India, has been instrumental in pushing for the operationalisation of the board.
Debate exists regarding the board's efficacy: critics argue its purely advisory role lacks teeth, while proponents suggest it respects the federal structure of Indian governance.
Legal experts note that granting the board enforcement powers over States could lead to jurisdictional conflicts and federal tensions.

02
25 August

Union Minister of Shipping and Transport advocates for sustained road safety education campaigns.
Proposed measures to reduce accidents include stricter enforcement against over-speeding, traffic violations, and driving under the influence.
Need for tightening procedures for issuing driving licences and vehicle fitness certificates to ensure competency and mechanical soundness.
Proposal to mandate compensation payments by individuals responsible for accidents to victims or their families as a deterrent against rash driving.
National permit scheme for goods transport aims to remove hurdles in the free movement of vehicles.
National permit scheme is part of the 20-point economic programme; 3,000 out of 5,300 allotted permits have been issued.
Government initiative for the mechanisation of cycle rickshaws to improve the economic conditions of rickshaw pullers.

Newest first. A story that ran for 35 days is exactly the kind the mains paper asks about as one question.

Discuss the multi-pronged approach required to address the rising incidence of road accidents in India, focusing on regulatory reforms and public awareness. 150 words · 25 August
The national permit scheme for goods transport is a significant step towards seamless logistics in India. Analyze its role in the context of economic development and the challenges associated with its implementation. 250 words · 25 August
Discuss the significance of the National Road Safety Board in the context of India's rising road fatalities. To what extent does its advisory nature balance the requirements of federalism and effective road safety management? 150 words · 22 July
The evolution of road safety governance in India reflects a tension between the need for a strong central regulator and the constitutional division of powers. Critically examine the role of the judiciary and expert committees in shaping the institutional framework for road safety in India. 250 words · 22 July

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