Battery Pack Aadhaar Number (BPAN)

Source: NIE

Subject: Miscellaneous/Science and Technology

Context: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has proposed an Aadhaar-like unique ID for electric vehicle batteries to ensure lifecycle traceability and efficient recycling.

• The draft guidelines introduce the Battery Pack Aadhaar Number (BPAN) to enhance transparency, sustainability, and regulatory compliance in India’s growing EV ecosystem.

About Battery Pack Aadhaar Number (BPAN):

What it is?

• Battery Pack Aadhaar Number (BPAN) is a 21-character unique identification number proposed for each battery pack introduced in the Indian market, especially electric vehicle batteries.

• It functions like a digital identity for batteries, enabling lifecycle tracking from production to recycling or disposal.

Proposed under:

• Draft “Guidelines for Implementation of Battery Pack Aadhaar System” issued by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH).

• To be institutionalised through the Automotive Industry Standard (AIS) route under the Automotive Industry Standards Committee (AISC).

• To ensure end-to-end traceability of batteries across their lifecycle.

• To promote efficient recycling, second-life usage, and safe disposal.

• To enhance transparency, accountability, and environmental sustainability in the battery ecosystem.

Key features:

• Mandatory unique ID: Every battery producer or importer must assign a BPAN to batteries sold or used internally.

• Lifecycle data capture: Tracks data from raw material sourcing, manufacturing, usage, performance, recycling, repurposing, to final disposal.

• Dynamic updating: Any major change requires issuance of a new BPAN.

• Visible & durable marking: BPAN must be placed where it cannot be easily destroyed or degraded.

• Digital portal integration: Producers/importers must upload battery data on an official BPAN portal.

• Priority to EV batteries: EV batteries (80–90% of India’s Li-ion demand) to be covered first; industrial batteries above 2 kWh also recommended.

Significance:

• Enables systematic recycling and second-life applications of batteries.

• Reduces risks from improper disposal of lithium-ion batteries.

• Strengthens enforcement of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR).