The National Transport Repository (NTR) functions as the backbone of India’s transport data infrastructure, integrating information collected through multiple flagship platforms. This includes vehicle registration certificates (RCs) via the Vahan portal, driver licenses (DLs) through Sarathi, electronic challans through eChallan, accident records via eDAR (Electronic Detailed Accident Report), and tolling records through FASTag under the National Electronic Toll Collection (NETC) system.
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Together, these datasets account for more than 390 million registered vehicles, 220 million driver licenses, and vast records linked to enforcement and tolling. The NTR is regularly accessed by central ministries, state departments, enforcement agencies, academic institutions, and private entities. Until now, requests for data lacked a unified legal and procedural framework.
The New Policy Framework
To address this gap, MoRTH has formalized a “Policy for Data Sharing from the National Transport Repository.” The policy aims to ensure uniformity, security, and legal compliance while responding to data requests from both government and private sectors.
The guidelines establish procedures for seeking approval, sharing datasets, and ensuring consent compliance. Every request for data from Vahan, Sarathi, eChallan, eDAR, and FASTag must now pass through a structured process, minimizing risks of misuse.
The policy also stresses that because the NTR contains sensitive personal information, data sharing will be strictly regulated and limited to purposes aligned with government functions, law enforcement, academic research, and business facilitation.
Balancing Access with Privacy
In its circular, MoRTH highlighted that the policy provides clear guidelines in line with recent legal requirements surrounding consent for sharing personal data. Safeguards have been incorporated to ensure that only authorized entities access the data and that its use is restricted to lawful, approved purposes.
The document emphasizes support for academic research and innovation, while also promoting “ease of living” and “ease of doing business.” It presents a balance between enabling data-driven development and upholding the privacy and rights of citizens whose information is stored in the NTR.
Implementation and Oversight
The policy makes it mandatory for organizations seeking access to transport data to follow a formal request and approval process. This includes specifying the datasets required, the purpose of use, and ensuring compliance with the law.
A detailed annexure titled “Policy for Data Sharing from the National Transport Repository” has been circulated to all ministries, departments, and stakeholders. Officials have been instructed to bring the circular to the attention of all concerned within their organizations.
The Ministry also underlined that the move comes with the approval of the Competent Authority, signaling the government’s commitment to managing digital infrastructure in a legally robust and citizen-centric manner.
