Sri Muktsar Sahib, September 27:
In a significant move aimed at empowering Scheduled Caste communities, the Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, is taking steps to provide support to auto drivers. Minister of Social Justice, Empowerment, and Minority Affairs, Dr. Baljit Kaur, announced today that under the Pradhan Mantri Scheduled Caste Abhayudya Yojana scheme, e-rickshaws equipped with batteries will be made available to scheduled caste individuals currently driving diesel-engine autos.
According to Cabinet Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur, beneficiaries of the Pradhan Mantri Anushuchit Jati Abhyudya Yojana, who are auto drivers relying on diesel engines, will have the opportunity to receive an e-rickshaw complete with a battery, valued at approximately Rs. 1,50,000/-. Under this scheme, eligible applicants will receive financial assistance of Rs. 50,000/- and a loan facility of Rs. 1,00,000/- from the Punjab Scheduled Castes Land Development and Finance Corporation.
Jagmohan Singh Mann, District Social Justice, Empowerment, and Minorities Officer for Sri Muktsar Sahib, outlined the application process. Applicants are required to submit copies of their auto rickshaw registration, Scheduled Caste certificate, Aadhaar card, and relevant documents related to e-rickshaw acquisition to the District Social Justice and Empowerment Office.
Furthermore, Dr. Baljit Kaur emphasized that disabled individuals belonging to Scheduled Castes, who possess the capability to operate e-rickshaws, are also encouraged to apply for this program.
