Introduction

The Bharat (BH) series number plate was introduced by the Indian government to facilitate seamless interstate vehicle movement and eliminate the cumbersome process of transferring vehicle registration from one state to another. This initiative, launched on August 28, 2021, aims to provide a more flexible and efficient vehicle registration system, particularly benefiting individuals with jobs that require frequent relocations, such as government employees and private sector professionals.

What is a BH Series Number Plate?

The BH series number plate is a unique registration mark that allows vehicles to be used across India without the need to re-register in a new state upon relocation. The format of the BH series number plate is designed to be easily recognizable and includes specific elements:

• Format: YY BH #### XX
  • YY: The year of registration
  • BH: Indicates Bharat series
  • ####: A four-digit number
  • XX: Two alphabetic characters

For example, a vehicle registered in 2023 with the BH series might have a number plate like "23 BH 1234 AB".

Eligibility for BH Series Number Plate

The BH series number plate is not available to everyone. It is specifically designed for certain categories of individuals and entities, including:

1. Government Employees: Central and state government employees, defence personnel, and employees of public sector undertakings.
2. Private Sector Employees: Employees of private companies or organizations that have offices in more than four states or union territories.

Benefits of BH Series Number Plate

1. Seamless Interstate Travel: Vehicles with BH series number plates do not require re-registration when moving from one state to another, making it ideal for individuals who frequently relocate.
2. Simplified Taxation: The road tax for BH series vehicles is paid every two years, which simplifies the tax process and avoids the hassle of paying lifetime road tax upfront.
3. Ease of Transfer: The BH series number plate facilitates easier vehicle transfers across states without the need for multiple NOCs (No Objection Certificates) and re-registration processes.

Application Process for BH Series Number Plate

The process to apply for a BH series number plate involves several steps:

1. Application Submission: Eligible individuals need to apply through their respective employers (government or private sector). The application can be submitted online via the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) portal.
2. Document Verification: Submit necessary documents, including proof of employment, address, and identity.
3. Fee Payment: Pay the applicable road tax, which is calculated based on the vehicle's invoice price.
4. Issuance of Number Plate: Once the application is approved, the BH series number plate is issued.

Taxation for BH Series Vehicles

The road tax for BH series vehicles is calculated biennially (every two years) instead of the traditional lifetime tax. The tax rates are based on the vehicle's cost and are as follows:

• Up to ₹10 lakh: 8% for petrol and 10% for diesel vehicles
• ₹10 lakh to ₹20 lakh: 10% for petrol and 12% for diesel vehicles
• Above ₹20 lakh: 12% for petrol and 14% for diesel vehicles

For electric vehicles, the tax rate is 2% less than the rates mentioned above.

Challenges and Considerations

While the BH series number plate offers numerous advantages, there are also some challenges and considerations:

1. Awareness and Adoption: Many vehicle owners and even some RTOs are still not fully aware of the BH series number plate process and benefits.
2. Eligibility Restrictions: The eligibility criteria limit the availability of BH series number plates to a specific group of individuals, potentially excluding many who could benefit from it.
3. Implementation: The success of the BH series number plate depends on the smooth implementation and cooperation between various state RTOs.

Amounts for Road Tax

The BH The road tax for BH series registration generally varies by state and is usually calculated as a percentage of the vehicle's ex-showroom price. Here’s a rough estimate of how road tax might look:

• Percentage Rate: Typically ranges from 8% to 15%, depending on the state and the type of vehicle.
• Example Calculation:
  • For an ex-showroom price of ₹15 lakhs:
    • At 10%: ₹1,50,000 (total road tax for 14 years) / 7 = ₹21,428 every two years.
    • At 12%: ₹1,80,000 (total road tax for 14 years) / 7 = ₹25,714 every two years.
    • At 15%: ₹2,25,000 (total road tax for 14 years) / 7 = ₹32,142 every two years.

In summary, as a BH series vehicle owner, you will need to pay road tax every two years, with the amount varying based on the percentage set by your state. It’s advisable to check with your local RTO for specific rates and any additional fees that may apply.

Conclusion

The BH series number plate is a progressive step towards simplifying vehicle registration and promoting ease of movement across states in India. It addresses the needs of a mobile workforce and enhances the convenience for vehicle owners, aligning with the government's vision of a more unified and efficient transportation system.

By understanding the eligibility, benefits, application process, and challenges associated with the BH series number plate, individuals can make informed decisions and enjoy the flexibility and convenience it offers.