Government officials may now also have to pay toll tax; preparations are underway to amend the rules—here are the key details..

Important news has emerged for those traveling on national highways. Major changes to toll tax regulations could be implemented soon. The central government is preparing to reduce the number of vehicles exempt from paying tolls on national highways. According to a *Times of India* report, if this new rule is implemented, government officials and individuals falling under the VIP category will be required to pay toll tax on national highways. Let us look into the details...

**Emphasis on Ending VIP Culture**

According to the *Times of India* report, a high-level committee formed by the central government has suggested to the Ministry of Road Transport that the categories of vehicles exempt from tolls should be eliminated or reduced by amending national highway fee rules. Discussions with various stakeholders regarding this proposal are currently underway, and it is likely that the number of exempt vehicles will be gradually reduced. The move aims to put an end to VIP culture.

**Suggestion to Purchase FASTag Annual Passes**

The TOI report states that the Ministry has written to all government departments and states, suggesting that they encourage their employees to purchase FASTag annual passes instead of seeking toll exemptions. It has also been suggested that the cost of these FASTag annual passes could be reimbursed.

**Who is Currently Exempt from Toll Tax?**
Under current regulations, individuals holding 25 high-ranking constitutional posts and their accompanying vehicles are exempt from toll tax. Additionally, exemptions apply to uniformed Army and paramilitary vehicles, executive magistrates, fire brigade vehicles, vehicles inspecting highway projects, and emergency services such as ambulances and hearses.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from NDTV India. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.