Two helmets must be mandatory for new two-wheeler purchase, says Gadkari

In a landmark decision aimed at improving road safety in India, Union Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Nitin Gadkari, has announced that all two-wheelers must be sold with two ISI-certified helmets. The move, revealed at the Auto Summit in New Delhi, has received strong support from the Two-Wheeler Helmet Manufacturers Association (THMA), the country’s leading body representing ISI-certified helmet producers.

With India having one of the highest road accident fatality rates in the world, this initiative is expected to significantly curb two-wheeler fatalities, which currently account for a substantial portion of road accident deaths. The THMA, which has long been advocating for stricter helmet laws, welcomed the decision, calling it a "national necessity rather than just a regulation."

Concerning figures around road safety

Road safety statistics in India paint a grim picture. According to the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH), the country witnesses over 4,80,000 road accidents annually, leading to around 1,88,000 deaths. Two-wheeler riders constitute a major portion of these casualties, with more than 69,000 deaths reported every year. Shockingly, 50% of these fatalities are attributed to the absence of helmets.

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Additionally, 66% of accident victims fall within the age bracket of 18 to 45 years, highlighting the loss of young lives in preventable road mishaps. Ensuring both the rider and pillion wear ISI-certified helmets can significantly reduce fatal injuries, as helmets are known to lower the risk of severe head injuries by 70% and the risk of death by 42%, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Industry applauds this move

THMA, India’s largest organization of ISI helmet manufacturers, has pledged to increase production and distribution of high-quality helmets across the country. Speaking on the development, Rajeev Kapur, President of THMA, remarked, “This initiative will not only save thousands of lives but also instill a culture of road safety among riders. Families who have lost loved ones to preventable accidents will finally see a step toward meaningful change.”

Pune RTO led the charge

While Nitin Gadkari has shared this suggestion, the Pune RTO led this initiative back in January 2025, announcing two helmets as a mandate for new two wheeler buyers. Not complying to this directive will result in an action against the dealership. Swapnil Bhosale, deputy regional transport officer, Pune RTO, said, “It is mandatory for vehicle distributors to provide two helmets to two-wheeler buyers. If the customer is not provided with a helmet, the customer should complain. Action will be taken against the distributor.”

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