Centre’s driver-training scheme to provide 20 lakh jobs

Facing criticism over lack of generation of jobs, the Centre on Wednesday announced a driver-training scheme which could provide employment to over 20 lakh people as drivers. The Road Transport Ministry announced the driver-training centres in partnership with auto majors, and even NGOs.

Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari said the Government plans to set up at least one model driving training centre in each district of the states or UT with financial assistance of up to `1 crore by the Highways Ministry.

“Our country is short of 22 lakh drivers. As a result, MNCs running cab services hire less trained drivers. This scheme, connected with skill development, will make the system time-bound, efficient and corruption-free.  There will be a proper classroom, training etc. We will open these centres on priority in backward and tribal areas as there are less job opportunities there,” Gadkari said at a Press conference.

He also launched a mobile app called ‘Sukhad Yatra’ aimed to empower frequent highway users and an emergency toll-free helpline number 1033 to  enable users to report an emergency or non-emergency condition, or highway-related feedback, across the highway to provide 24X7X365 assistance. Union Minister for Petroleum, Natural Gas, Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Dharmendra Pradhan was also present on the occasion. The minister said the key feature of the app Sukhad Yatra includes provisions for the users to enter road quality-related information or to report any accident, pothole on the highway; provide real-time data related to waiting time expected at plazas and various facilities like points of interest, highway nest/nest mini, etc, available across the highway.