Bhubaneswar, Nov 15: The Odisha government has decided to launch AMA SuVahak – Atmanirbhar Mahila SuVahak scheme, aimed at transforming women’s mobility and entrepreneurship in the state, officials said on Saturday.

The Commerce & Transport Department will launch the scheme to create a cadre of skilled women drivers, aimed at ensuring safe, dignified, and inclusive transport service, they added.

Meeting with Banks

The Department convened a meeting today with SLBC member banks in this regard. The meeting was chaired by Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary, Commerce & Transport Department. Transport Commissioner Amitabh Thakur, Senior representatives from leading public and private sector banks attended, pledging coordinated support for smooth execution of the scheme.

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Empowerment Through Mobility

 Speaking on the occasion, Usha Padhee described AMA SuVahak as a transformative livelihood-linked empowerment program designed to bring gender balance to the driving profession and promote women entrepreneurship. She urged banks to adopt fast-track loan processing, simplified documentation, and dedicated facilitation desks to support women beneficiaries.

Scheme Benefits

On his part, Amitabh Thakur highlighted that the scheme offers interest-free loans for purchasing four-wheelers (LMVs), licensing assistance, structured driving training, and entrepreneurship opportunities through the Odisha Yatri platform. The government will provide 10% down payment, cover CGTMSE charges, bear annual interest, and pay interest during the three-month moratorium period.

Targets and Eligibility

The scheme aims to create 1,100 AMA SuVahaks over four years—200 in 2025–26, 250 in 2026–27, 300 in 2027–28, and 350 in 2028–29. Eligible women must be between 21–40 years of age, have annual family income below Rs 3 lakh, and undergo training at one of the four Institutes of Driving Training & Research (IDTRs) in Odisha.

Inclusive Growth

Banks expressed strong support, agreeing to extend financing through target-based loan sanctions and simplified norms. The Department emphasized that AMA SuVahak will not only ensure financial independence for women but also contribute to safer mobility and inclusive economic growth across Odisha.