HP CM Sukhu flagged off 20 electric taxis from the State Secretariat on Saturday as part of the Rajiv Gandhi Swarozgaar Start-up Yojana (RGSSY). The initiative aims to empower local youth by providing a 50% subsidy for purchasing e-taxis, encouraging self-employment and sustainable transportation.
So far, the state government has disbursed ₹4.22 crore to 59 beneficiaries, with subsidies for 61 more youth set to be released shortly. These e-taxis will be attached to government departments, ensuring a stable income for at least five years, with the option of a two-year extension.
Highlighting the environmental and economic significance of the initiative, CM Sukhu said, “We must adopt policies that safeguard the environment. Promoting electric vehicles and green hydrogen is essential in the face of climate change.”
He emphasized that the government is not only focusing on public sector employment but also actively creating self-employment opportunities. Efforts are underway to facilitate overseas employment for youth through the Himachal Pradesh State Electronics Development Corporation (HPSEDC), which recently acquired a recruitment license. This move will open doors for MoUs with various consulates and skill development programs to prepare candidates for international job markets.
The Chief Minister also noted the positive outcomes of recent governance reforms. Himachal Pradesh has advanced from the 21st to the 5th position nationally in education quality. Additionally, the state is enhancing its healthcare infrastructure to match the standards of AIIMS Delhi across its government medical colleges.
Industries Minister Harshwardhan Chauhan, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh, and several senior officials and dignitaries were present at the flag-off event.
