The Himachal Pradesh Government will launch Phase IV of the Rajiv Gandhi Swarozgar Start-up Yojana, offering subsidies and financial incentives to unemployed youth for operating passenger buses across the state.
Under the scheme, beneficiaries will receive a 50% capital subsidy for electric buses and 30% for diesel buses. They will also get monthly operational incentives of Rs 65,000 for electric buses and Rs 50,000 for diesel buses for five years.
Around 1,000 routes have been identified under the scheme, with at least 10 routes in every sub-division to improve connectivity to schools, hospitals, government offices, tourist destinations and remote areas.
Eligible applicants must be Himachal Pradesh residents aged 25–50 years with a valid heavy driving licence and at least three years’ experience. Preference will be given to candidates registered with employment exchanges and those from economically weaker families.
All buses will be GPS-enabled. Women will continue to receive 50% fare concession, while school students up to Class XII will be provided concessional travel through a pass system.
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu said the initiative will generate self-employment, strengthen public transport and promote cleaner mobility by encouraging the adoption of electric buses.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
