The Maharashtra government has announced a one-time grant of INR 10,000 for auto and taxi drivers aged 65 and above. The scheme was introduced by State Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik on Thursday, February 13. The goal is to support senior drivers who have been registered with the state's welfare board for at least five years.
As per reports, about 9-10 million autorickshaw and meter taxi drivers operate in Maharashtra. Most of them work in the unorganised sector and lack social security benefits. To address this, the state government has allocated INR 50 crore for various welfare programs.
The board is also working on other benefits for drivers. This includes a scholarship program for their children and health schemes like life and disability insurance. The welfare board will also introduce an annual awards program. This will recognise outstanding rickshaw and taxi drivers, notable driver associations, and well-maintained rickshaw stands.
To join the welfare board, drivers must pay a registration fee of INR 500. They also need to make an annual contribution of INR 300. Membership will give them access to the board’s financial and social benefits. To make registration easier, the board has launched an online portal.
The announcement was made at the first meeting of the Dharamveer Anand Dighe Maharashtra Auto Rickshaw and Meter Taxi Drivers Welfare Board. The board was formed on January 27 in memory of Anand Dighe. It will provide financial support and social security to drivers of Maharashtra.
The inaugural meeting was attended by Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimrao and welfare board members. During the meeting, Minister Sarnaik talked about the government’s support for auto and taxi drivers.
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