Nagpur: The craze for fancy or VIP vehicle registration numbers has seen a significant rise in Nagpur, as vehicle owners seek unique identifiers for their vehicles. To address the increasing demand, the Nagpur Regional Transport Office (RTO) has introduced an online platform that enables citizens to reserve their preferred registration numbers from the convenience of their homes.
The new system, which was launched on November 25, eliminates the need for individuals to visit the RTO office to complete the application process. Vehicle owners can now reserve numbers online using their Aadhaar-linked mobile numbers via the portal https://fancy.parivahan.gov.in.
Kiran Bidkar, RTO Nagpur (City), highlighted the benefits of this digital service, stating, “The digitization of the process has made it more convenient for citizens. Applicants can now access the portal, complete their applications, and make payments without stepping out.”
Nagpur Rural RTO Vijay Chavhan added that the system has also introduced user-friendly rules, such as enabling the transfer of registration numbers among blood relatives and extending the validity of reserved numbers to six months.
“This initiative, developed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC), operates on a first-come, first-served basis. We encourage citizens to utilize this system, which is not only efficient but also transparent,” Chavhan said.
The practice of securing fancy numbers is often associated with status, aesthetic appeal, or personal significance. To cater to this demand, the RTO had previously increased the cost of VIP numbers. In 2013, fees for these numbers were raised from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 4 lakh in large cities and Rs 3 lakh in medium-sized cities. In the latest revision on September 1, 2024, the cost was further increased to Rs 5 lakh in major cities and Rs 6 lakh in large districts.
Despite these steep prices, the demand for fancy numbers remains undeterred. Recently, the owner of an SUV worth Rs 22 lakh paid Rs 2.50 lakh for a sought-after number like “9999.”
While the online system is expected to simplify the process and enhance transparency, there are concerns about whether touts will find new ways to exploit the system. However, the Nagpur RTO assures citizens of a streamlined and secure mechanism, urging them to report any issues during the application process.
The move is a significant step toward modernizing public services in Nagpur, reflecting the city’s growing adoption of digital tools for citizen convenience.
