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The Delhi government is set to launch its new ‘Durga’ scheme. Under this initiative, women and transgender drivers will receive 1,300 e-auto permits. Additionally, a subsidy of ₹50,000 will be provided for the purchase of the e-autos.

Delhi Durga E-Auto Yojana Permit: The Delhi government is preparing to introduce the ‘Durga’ scheme to increase women's participation in public transport and provide them with better employment opportunities. The full name of the scheme is 'Driving Upliftment and Rozgar for Women/Transgender Green e-Auto'. Under this initiative, a total of 1,300 electric auto permits will be issued to women and transgender individuals across the capital's 13 districts. The proposal for the scheme will soon be submitted to the Cabinet for approval.

Allocation of 1,300 Permits Across 13 Districts

The government has allocated 100 e-auto permits for each of Delhi's 13 districts under the scheme, making a total of 1,300 permits available. The objective is to integrate women and the transgender community into the public transport sector while offering them opportunities for financial self-reliance.

1,170 of the 1,300 Permits Reserved for Women

Women have been allocated a 90 percent share of the total permits, while the remaining 10 percent are reserved for the transgender community. Consequently, out of the 1,300 permits, 1,170 will go to women and 130 to transgender individuals. Selected applicants will be issued a 'Letter of Intent' to purchase the e-autos.

Selection via Lottery if Applications Exceed Permits

An online application system is being set up for the scheme, and a dedicated portal is currently under development. If the number of applicants exceeds the available permits, beneficiaries will be selected through a lottery system.

Opportunity for those aged 20 to 40

An age limit has been set for applying to the scheme; applicants must be between 20 and 40 years old. Additionally, the family's annual income must not exceed ₹5 lakh.

Only one person per family can apply.

Under the ‘Durga’ scheme, only one person per family will be considered eligible. Applicants must not already have a three-wheeler registered in their name. An additional condition applies to married women: their children must be under the age of 18.

Incentive of ₹50,000 for purchasing an e-auto

Beneficiaries of the scheme will receive financial assistance to purchase e-autos. Under the Delhi EV Policy, an incentive of ₹50,000 will be provided in the first year of purchase. Furthermore, there will be a 100% exemption on registration fees and road tax.

Drivers to be linked with online cab platforms

The scheme also includes arrangements to ensure a steady stream of passengers for e-auto drivers. To achieve this, drivers will be linked to online cab-aggregator platforms, making it easier for them to find passengers and ensuring more consistent employment.

Distinct identity through ‘Durga’ jackets, caps, and ID cards

To ensure the safety and distinct identity of female and transgender e-auto drivers, they will be provided with special ‘Durga’ jackets and caps. Additionally, every driver will be issued an identity card. Helpline numbers will also be displayed on the autos so that passengers can seek assistance if needed.

Focus on areas around Metro and RRTS stations

Under the scheme, these e-autos are planned to operate primarily in high-footfall areas, such as Delhi Metro and RRTS stations. This will provide passengers with an additional transport option for commuting to and from stations, while also increasing the likelihood of e-auto drivers finding more passengers.

Infrastructure Development for Charging and Parking

Designated parking facilities will be developed around Metro and RRTS stations to ensure the smooth operation of e-autos. Plans are also in place to establish adequate charging infrastructure, providing drivers with convenient arrangements for parking and charging their vehicles. This Delhi government initiative will proceed following Cabinet approval; preparations are currently underway to submit the proposal to the Cabinet soon.