On August 22, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) introduced the long-anticipated Bharat NCAP (New Car Assessment Programme), marking India's inaugural automotive safety evaluation initiative. Developed following the AIS-197 crash testing regulations, this program combines the collaborative knowledge of Global NCAP, MoRTH, Central Institute of Road Transport (CIRT), as well as testing bodies such as the Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) and International Centre for Automotive Technology (ICAT). Together, they have established a comprehensive safety rating framework, aimed at enhancing the safety and export potential of Indian automobiles.

Maruti Suzuki India, the leading player in the automobile market, has confirmed its participation by providing a minimum of three vehicle models for the initial phase of testing in the program. Similarly, Hyundai Motor India, Mahindra & Mahindra, and Renault have also expressed their complete endorsement and cooperation with the initiative.

Starting October 1, 2023, Bharat NCAP is set to go into effect. As part of this program, car makers have the option to willingly submit their vehicles for testing in accordance with the Automotive Industry Standard (AIS) 197.

The car's performance in the assessments will determine its star ratings on a scale of 0 to 5, both for adult occupants (AOP) and child occupants (COP).