New Delhi: In a first-of-its-kind push to put more women behind the wheel of public transport, Delhi govt is set to roll out its DURGA (Driving Upliftment and Rozgar for Women/Transgender Green e-Auto) scheme, offering 100 e-auto permits in each of the 13 districts to women and transgender persons.Govt plans to issue letters of intent to selected beneficiaries to ply electric autos, with 90% of the total 1,300 slots reserved for women and the rest for transgenders. The scheme aims to promote self-employment and provide better livelihood opportunities while encouraging the use of electric vehicles.“A note for the scheme will soon be sent to the cabinet for consideration and approval,” a source said.To ensure the beneficiaries have a regular source of income, govt is preparing to link them with online cab and auto aggregator platforms. This will help them get passengers more easily instead of depending entirely on roadside stands or street-level demand.Govt is developing a dedicated online portal through which applications for the scheme will be invited. The final allotment is likely to be made through a draw of lots. Women and transgender persons between 20 and 40 years can apply, provided their family income is below Rs 5 lakh and they have no existing three-wheeler. Women who are married and have kids will be eligible only if their children are under 18 years. Only one woman per family can qualify.The scheme is expected to provide beneficiaries access to various incentives available under Delhi EV Policy 2026-30. Those buying e-autos will get a purchase incentive of Rs 50,000 in the first year. All EVs registered in the city during the policy period will also be eligible for 100% exemption from road tax and registration fees.The drivers will be provided with ‘DURGA’ jackets, caps and identity cards to enable passengers and enforcement agencies to easily identify them. The autos will prominently display women’s helpline numbers and other emergency contact details for the safety of the drivers in a traditionally male-dominated transport sector.Govt will facilitate the operation of these e-autos from locations with high passenger demand. The proposed arrangements include access to stands near Delhi Metro stations and Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) stations, officials said.“Govt will also provide supporting infrastructure for the scheme. Adequate charging facilities at Metro and RRTS locations and designated parking spaces may be facilitated in coordination with agencies concerned,” the official added.
