In a significant move aimed at fostering self-employment and bolstering entrepreneurship opportunities, the Himachal Pradesh Government has unveiled the Rajiv Gandhi Swarozgaar Yojna-2023 (RGSY) with an impressive outlay of Rs 680 crore.

The flagship scheme, designed to provide a significant impetus to local youth seeking self-employment avenues, will prioritize the promotion of entrepreneurship across the State. The initial phase of the RGSY focuses on the streamlined procedures for the recruitment of e-taxis, an environmentally-friendly mode of transportation.

Under the scheme, the government will extend support to the youth by offering a 50 per cent subsidy on the purchase of e-taxis. The subsidy will be calculated based on the ex-showroom price, inclusive of all applicable taxes. Furthermore, the Government will provide a guarantee for employment and start-up assistance to the eligible youth.

To be eligible for the e-taxi subsidy, applicants must fulfill specific criteria. A bonafide Himachali individual, with a minimum age of 23 years and a seven-year driving experience, possessing a Class XII educational qualification, can apply. The applicant should also hold a valid driving license, Aadhaar card, and relevant caste certificates such as Scheduled Caste or Scheduled Tribe.

To streamline the application process, the Transport Department has introduced an online portal where applicants can create accounts authenticated through Aadhaar or mobile OTP.

In a bid to ensure equitable distribution of benefits, the scheme allows only one person per family to avail of the e-taxi subsidy. Additionally, the experience criteria can be relaxed in special cases to cater to the needs of the underprivileged.

Expressing enthusiasm for the RGSY, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Sukhu highlighted its dual impact on the state. Not only does the scheme guarantee livelihood opportunities for the youth, but it also aligns with the state's commitment to environmental sustainability, said the chief minister in the statement issued on Sunday.

The Chief Minister said that by encouraging the adoption of e-taxis, Himachal Pradesh aims to reduce vehicular pollution and take strides towards becoming a ‘green state’.