Odisha to launch 'Mahila Su Vahak' programme to empower women in driving profession

BHUBANESWAR: The Odisha govt intends to launch a new programme to empower women in the driving profession. Tentatively named ‘Atmanirbhar Mahila Su Vahak’ (Ama Su Vahak), the proposed initiative seeks to provide women with entrepreneurial opportunities in the transportation sector.As part of this initiative, the govt will offer interest-free loans of up to Rs 10 lakh to women for the purchase of four-wheeler taxis, providing them with a sustainable source of income. “This effort is designed to promote gender equality, economic independence, and ensure safer mobility options for women,” a senior transport official told TOI.The proposed Ama Su Vahak programme is an extension of the Su Vahak initiative launched in December 2023, which aimed to improve driver efficiency and reduce road accidents caused by untrained drivers.

While the original scheme was open to both men and women, the new one is specifically tailored for women. At least 30 women were already trained under the Su Vahak initiative.Over the next four financial years, the govt plans to create a network of 1,100 women mobility entrepreneurs, with a phased rollout: 200 in the first year, 250 in the second, 300 in the third, and 350 in the fourth. The estimated financial commitment from the state govt for this initiative may be about Rs 46.66 crore over the four-year period.

“Participants in the programme will receive free training in driving, personal grooming, safe driving practices, customer service, and vehicle maintenance. Additionally, an incentive of Rs 2 lakh will be provided for the purchase of electric taxis, in line with the Odisha EV policy, along with exemptions from road tax and registration fees,” the transport official said.Eligible beneficiaries will be women aged 21-40 years, with an annual family income of up to Rs 3 lakh.

Applicants must hold a valid driving licence and complete skill enhancement training at an institute of driving training and research (IDTR). Priority will be given to women already engaged in driving govt buses, members of women self-help groups, and Subhadra beneficiaries.The proposal for the Ama Su Vahak scheme was presented to the 179th State Level Bankers’ Committee (SLBC) on May 23. The SLBC has established a committee to explore potential improvements to the scheme from a banking perspective. To ensure the smooth implementation of the programme, a steering committee, chaired by the transport secretary, will be formed for periodic reviews. The financial resources for this initiative are expected to be drawn from the budgetary allocations under the Mukhyamantri Sadak Surakshya Bhittibhumi Unnayana Yojana, currently being implemented by the commerce and transport department