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Himachal's Green Revolution: How Electric Taxis Create Jobs and Cut Pollution

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has launched a fleet of electric taxis under the Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Start-Up Scheme. The initiative offers 50% subsidy on electric vehicles for unemployed youth, requiring only 10% upfront payment. These taxis are being deployed in government offices to reduce diesel vehicle usage and protect the environment. The scheme also encourages women drivers to participate with equal subsidy benefits and provides assured monthly rental income.

Key Points: CM Sukhu Launches Electric Taxi Fleet Under Rajiv Gandhi Scheme

  • Government provides 50% subsidy on electric vehicles for unemployed youth
  • Youth pay only 10% upfront cost with no bank guarantee required
  • Electric taxis deployed across 80 government offices and departments
  • Monthly rental income assured based on vehicle price for 4-7 years
3 min read

Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhu launches fleet of electric taxis under Self-Employment Start-Up Scheme

Himachal Pradesh launches electric taxis with 50% subsidy for youth, creating employment while reducing diesel vehicles in government offices for environmental protection.

"This scheme is not just about jobs, it's about protecting our mountains, our environment, and our people. - CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu"

Shimla, October 16

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched a fleet of electric taxis under the Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Start-Up Scheme on Wednesday.

During the launch, Himachal Pradesh CM said that the government is taking steps to reduce the number of diesel engine vehicles in government offices. The state's Chief Minister also mentioned that vehicles have been given to young unemployed individuals with a 50% subsidy. Under the Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Start-up Scheme, young people purchasing a vehicle will only have to pay 10% of the total amount.

"The scheme is being offered under the Rajiv Gandhi Startup Scheme. Our government has taken steps to reduce the number of diesel engine vehicles in government offices. To give shape to that plan, the Rajiv Gandhi eTaxi Scheme was launched. The objective was to protect Himachal's environment. Vehicles have been given to young unemployed individuals with a 50% subsidy. Under this scheme, if a vehicle costs 14 lakh rupees, the government will contribute Rs 7 lakh. Young people purchasing a vehicle will only have to pay 10% of the marginal money, and they will not have to provide any bank guarantee," Sukhu told reporters.

The state's chief minister also announced that the youth will receive a monthly allowance for each vehicle. The rent will be determined on the basis of the vehicle's price.

"The government has assured the youth that they will receive the monthly rent for each vehicle. The rent is determined based on the vehicle's price... This has provided employment to the youth and also given them the respect to improve their livelihood. In the coming time, we will install vehicles in more government departments..." added Sukhu.

Meanwhile, the Chief Minister stated that the initiative aims to provide employment opportunities to unemployed youth while promoting eco-friendly transport and reducing dependence on diesel vehicles in government departments.

He also assured that each vehicle would be deployed in government service for at least four years, with the option to extend to seven years based on the vehicle's condition. Around 80 government offices and departments have already hired these taxis, Sukhu said, adding that the initiative is a "double benefit, employment for youth and environmental protection."

"We want to make Himachal a pollution-free, green state. This scheme is not just about jobs, it's about protecting our mountains, our environment, and our people," he emphasised. The Chief Minister also urged women drivers to come forward and apply under the scheme, assuring them of equal support and subsidy benefits. "Women who want to drive and earn a livelihood can apply under the Rajiv Gandhi Taxi Yojana. They will get 50% subsidy and financial independence," Sukhu said

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rohit P
Great move for environment and employment! But I hope the implementation is transparent. Sometimes such schemes get misused by people with connections. Proper monitoring needed.
A
Arjun K
As someone from Himachal, I appreciate this step. Our mountains are precious and reducing diesel vehicles will help preserve our natural beauty. Plus employment for youth - win-win situation! 🌄
S
Sarah B
The inclusion of women drivers with equal benefits is commendable. Financial independence for women through such schemes can transform rural economies. More power to Himachal!
V
Vikram M
Good scheme but what about charging infrastructure in remote areas? Electric vehicles need proper charging stations, especially in hilly regions. Hope government has planned for that too.
M
Michael C
Impressive how Himachal is leading in green initiatives. The 4-7 year government service guarantee provides stability to the youth. This model should be replicated across India.

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