In a move aimed at bolstering road safety, the Union government has proposed that all two-wheeler manufacturers supply two helmets at the time of vehicle purchase, ensuring protection for both rider and pillion.
The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, in a draft notification issued on 23 June, has suggested amendments to the Central Motor Vehicle Rules, 1989, to incorporate this requirement. Once the final amendment is notified in the official gazette, manufacturers will be required to comply within three months.
“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 notification stated.
The proposed regulation mandates that both helmets must meet the specifications set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Exemptions will apply to individuals covered under Section 129 of the Motor Vehicles Act, which includes certain medical and religious grounds.
ABS mandatory from 2026 for powerful two-wheelers
In addition to helmet provision, the Ministry has also proposed to make Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) mandatory for all L2 category two-wheelers—those with engine capacity exceeding 50cc or capable of travelling over 50 km/h—from 1 January 2026.
The braking systems must comply with Indian Standard IS14664:2010, aimed at enhancing vehicle stability and control, particularly under sudden braking conditions.
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The Ministry believes that ABS, along with helmets for both rider and pillion, will play a vital role in reducing fatalities and serious injuries resulting from two-wheeler accidents—a major contributor to road casualties in India.
Public consultation open for 30 days
The government has invited feedback on the draft notification from the public, stakeholders, and industry representatives. Suggestions or objections can be submitted within 30 days from the publication of the draft. Comments may be sent via email to: comments-morth@gov.in.
These measures form part of a broader effort by the Centre to improve road safety and address the alarming statistics related to two-wheeler accidents across the country.
In recent years, the Ministry has made several interventions, including mandatory helmet use, enhanced emission norms, and regulatory improvements. The dual-helmet provision, if enacted, would formalise a long-standing recommendation by road safety advocates and reinforce the responsibility of manufacturers in promoting safe riding habits.
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