Over 96,000 Vehicles Registered as Adapted for Persons with Disabilities Since 2020: Government

More than 96,000 vehicles have been registered as adapted vehicles for persons with disabilities (PwDs) since 2020, the government informed the Parliament on Friday. These vehicles are specially modified or designed to help individuals with physical disabilities travel comfortably and safely.

Bhupathiraju Srinivasa Varma, Minister of State for Steel and Heavy Industries, revealed in a written reply in the Rajya Sabha that a total of 96,265 vehicles were registered as “adapted vehicles” from January 1, 2020, to March 19, 2025.

What Are Adapted Vehicles?

An “adapted vehicle” refers to a motor vehicle that is either specially designed or modified for the use of people with physical disabilities. These modifications can include changes in seating, braking, steering, or other systems, allowing PwDs to operate the vehicle independently or be safely transported by others.

Legal Provisions for Adapted Vehicles

The registration of such vehicles falls under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and follows rules specified under Rule 47A, Rule 47B, and Rule 112 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989. These regulations govern alterations, retrofitting, and the official endorsement of vehicle modifications for disabled users.

GST Concessions for PwDs

PwDs who meet specific criteria can also purchase adapted vehicles at a concessional Goods and Services Tax (GST) rate. To avail of this benefit, individuals must have an orthopaedic physical disability of at least 40% and obtain a certification from the Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI).

As per the guidelines, the GST concession is applicable only to certain types of vehicles:

• Petrol, LPG, or CNG vehicles with an engine capacity not exceeding 1,200 cc and a length of up to 4,000 mm.
• Diesel vehicles with an engine capacity not exceeding 1,500 cc and a length of up to 4,000 mm.

All vehicles purchased under this GST concession must be registered as “Adapted Vehicles,” as per the Motor Vehicles Act.

Government Support for PwDs

In addition to facilitating adapted vehicle registration, the Central Government provides financial assistance under schemes that aim to help PwDs purchase or fit mobility aids and appliances. This includes motorised tricycles, wheelchairs, prostheses, orthotic devices, accessible smartphones, smart canes, low-vision aids, and hearing aids.