New Delhi: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) is about to bring about important changes to the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989 to ensure greater safety for two-wheeler users. It will now be mandatory for two-wheeler manufacturers to provide not one, but two, helmets at the time of purchase of the vehicle.
All two-wheelers with a top speed exceeding 50 km/hr will also need to be fitted with Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS).
A draft notification to this effect has already been released on June 25. The changes will be effective within three months after the final notification of the new amended rules in the official gazette.
The draft notification states that the aim is to enhance road safety for both riders and pillion riders. “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 (BIS) at the time of purchase of a two-wheeler,” the draft notification states.
However, this requirement will not apply to individuals who are exempted under Section 129 of the Motor Vehicles Act. This Section allows only Sikhs (with turbans) to ride two-wheelers without helmets. State governments have the authority to put more categories of people on the exemption list.
The draft notification also says that from January 1, 2026, all new L2 category two-wheelers, which include motorcycles and scooters with engine capacity above 50cc or top speeds exceeding 50 km/hr – will need to be fitted with Anti-Lock Braking Systems (ABS).
The ABS must comply with Indian Standard IS14664:2010, ensuring better control and reduced chances of skidding, especially during sudden braking. The proposed rules are currently open for public feedback. Common citizens and stakeholders have been given 30 days from the date of publication to send in their suggestions or objections. Inputs can be shared with the ministry by email at comments-morth@gov.in.