India’s Motor Vehicles Act revisions aim to enhance student transport safety by bringing all rented vehicles used for school transport under stricter rules, redefining them as “educational institution buses” or similar, requiring features like GPS, CCTV, and fire safety, and imposing heavier penalties for non-compliance, with states like Maharashtra leading
implementation to cover all transport, including vans, to address widespread unregulated transport. These rules expand beyond traditional yellow buses to cover leased vehicles and small vans (12+1 seater), ensuring uniform safety standards like mandatory female attendants, speed limits, and fitness checks for all student transport.
Under the new system, not only school-owned buses but also hired or leased vehicles used for student transport will come under the ambit of “educational institution buses.” Earlier, only institution-owned buses were clearly covered under this definition. The revised provisions now extend the scope to include rented and leased vehicles used for transporting students and staff.
What are the main changes?
The definition of “Educational Bus” is no longer limited to the ownership of schools/colleges. All such vehicles shall be included which are used in the transportation of school pupils and staff, Whether owned,
rented, or leased.
Under this revised rule, school buses plying on hire will also now come under the Central Motor Vehicle Rules and Safety Standards, whereby inspection, fitness, license and safety rules will also apply to these vehicles.
Why is this change important?
In previous rules, many schools and educational institutes hired external private buses to meet their transportation needs, but they were not recognized as “educational vehicles” in the law.This led to disparities in safety standards and licensing procedures. Now a roadmap is being laid to ensure the safety and responsibility of children by bringing these vehicles under the rules.
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Child Safety and Accountability:
With the revised rules, the government wants to ensure that every vehicle that transports school children — whether owned or hired by the school — comes under strict safety, fitness and standardization.
This change will make children’s travel safer, more accountable, and better regulated.
View of Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj:
Sant Rampal Ji Maharaj emphasizes safety, discipline, and responsibility in all aspects of life. According to his teachings, adherence to rules and accountability—whether in personal conduct or public systems—prevents harm and suffering. Just as strict safety norms protect children during travel, following moral and social rules safeguards individuals from difficulties in life.
FAQs: Major Update in Motor Vehicle Act: School Buses Now Classified as Educational Buses
Q. What vehicles are now classified as educational buses?
Ans: Both owned and rented school buses used to transport students are classified as educational buses.
Q. Why were rented school buses included in the rules?
Ans: To ensure safety, accountability, and standardized regulations for all vehicles transporting school children.
Q. What is the main purpose of this change?
Ans: To improve student safety and ensure all buses follow proper regulations.
