Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated the e-Taxi scheme in Himachal Pradesh with the objective of transforming the state into an environmentally conscious region. Describing it as a government initiative toward environmental sustainability, CM Sukhu launched the scheme under the Rajiv Gandhi Employment Startup Scheme.
He emphasized the scheme’s role in providing self-employment opportunities for the unemployed, aligning with Congress’s commitment to the public. As part of this commitment, a startup scheme worth Rs 680 crore was included for the unemployed. The e-Taxi scheme, introduced today, aims to issue electric taxi permits to the unemployed with a 50% subsidy. These taxis will be available for services in government departments, promoting employment and contributing to a pollution-free environment in Himachal Pradesh.
CM Sukhu highlighted that unemployed individuals can easily apply online through the Transport Department’s website to avail themselves of the scheme’s benefits. Looking ahead, the government plans to introduce schemes for the unemployed in the solar energy and agriculture sectors as part of the startup’s next phases.
Furthermore, the government is set to install e-charging stations at 17 locations across the state. Expressing optimism, Sukhu asserted that Himachal Pradesh is progressing towards becoming a green state, with plans for solar energy initiatives in the second phase and agricultural sector development in the third phase.
In addressing concerns about illegal mining promoted by the previous BJP government, Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu announced a thorough investigation into the mining scam. He highlighted instances where 131 stone crushers in Beas River Basin were operating without permission, resulting in significant financial losses for the government. The investigation will cover all crushers installed in the River Basin.
