Government Proposes Mandatory Provision of Two Helmets with New 2-Wheelers
Government Proposes Mandatory Provision of Two Helmets with New Two-Wheelers
New amendment aims to improve road safety; manufacturers must provide BIS-certified helmets at the time of purchase
In a significant move to enhance road safety, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has proposed an amendment to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, mandating that manufacturers supply two BIS-certified helmets with every new two-wheeler purchase.
According to the draft notification, the rule will come into effect three months from the date of commencement of the amended rules in 2025. As per the proposed regulation, every two-wheeler manufacturer must provide two protective headgears that conform to Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) specifications at the time of vehicle delivery.
This initiative is part of the government’s broader push to reduce fatalities involving two-wheeler riders and pillion passengers, who are among the most vulnerable road users in India.
However, the notification clarified that this requirement will not apply to individuals exempted under Section 129 of the Motor Vehicles Act, which includes certain categories such as Sikh riders wearing turbans.
The notification said “At the time of purchase of the two wheeler, three months from the date of commencement of Central Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Rules, 2025, the manufacturer of the two wheeler shall supply two protective headgears conforming to specifications prescribed by the Bureau of Indian Standards at the time of purchase of a two wheeler”.
The draft is open to public and stakeholder comments before final implementation. If approved, this rule will not only make helmet usage more accessible but also reinforce the importance of protective gear for both rider and pillion.
