Delhi to Launch DURGA E-Auto Scheme with 1,300 Pink Autos
Delhi Govt to roll out 1,300 pink e-autos under the DURGA scheme to empower women and transgender persons through financial independence.
In a significant move to foster financial independence and promote green mobility, the Delhi government is set to roll out the DURGA (Driving, Upliftment and Rozgar for Women and Transgender) E-Auto Scheme. The initiative, which has received official approval from the Delhi Cabinet under Chief Minister Rekha Gupta, aims to empower marginalized groups by providing them with the tools for a steady livelihood.
The first phase of this ambitious project will see the deployment of 1,300 pink electric autos across the capital. To ensure inclusive growth, the government has specifically reserved 1,170 of these vehicles for women and 130 for transgender persons.
Empowering Livelihoods and Last-Mile Connectivity
Transport Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh highlighted that the scheme is designed with a dual purpose: helping women and transgender individuals achieve economic self-reliance while simultaneously enhancing the city's electric transport network and last-mile connectivity.
The rollout will be structured geographically to ensure fair distribution. Each revenue district in Delhi will be allotted a specific quota, consisting of:
- Up to 90 autos reserved for women beneficiaries.
- Up to 10 autos reserved for transgender beneficiaries.
A Transparent Digital Selection Process
To maintain transparency and efficiency, the selection process will be handled through a digital portal developed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC), Delhi. The application and vetting process will follow a strict protocol:
- Applications will be submitted via the dedicated NIC portal.
- District Magistrate-led committees will review and verify applications on a weekly basis.
- In instances where the number of qualified applicants exceeds the available quota, beneficiaries will be selected through a fair online draw of lots.
Successful applicants will not only receive their vehicles but will also be provided with official Letters of Intent, identity cards, and specialized DURGA-branded jackets and caps. Furthermore, these drivers will be eligible for various incentives under the Delhi EV Policy 2026.
Infrastructure and Digital Integration Support
Recognizing the practical challenges faced by new drivers, the government is working closely with various stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition into the workforce. Aggregators have been requested to provide free onboarding and subscriptions, allowing drivers to join digital mobility platforms without initial financial burdens.
To facilitate ease of operation, the Transport Department has approached the DMRC and NCRTC to secure dedicated parking and charging spaces for these pink e-autos at Metro and Namo Bharat RRTS stations.
A Broader Vision for Women's Safety and Development
The launch of the DURGA scheme aligns with a wider government strategy focused on the safety and holistic development of women in the capital. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has previously emphasized the necessity of a coordinated ecosystem involving police, medical services, legal aid, and shelter homes to support those facing harassment or violence.
Speaking at a National Departmental Summit on Women and Child Development, the Chief Minister outlined five key priorities, including:
- The creation of individual care plans for victims.
- Enhanced coordination between emergency helplines and One Stop Centres.
- Improved access to professional counselling and legal assistance.
- Prevention of child marriage.
- Strict implementation of laws regarding sexual harassment in the workplace.
The government intends to conduct a two-phase assessment of the DURGA scheme to monitor its long-term impact on the financial well-being and social upliftment of its beneficiaries.