The Airavata Scheme was launched by the Government of Karnataka to promote self-employment among rural youth from SC/ST communities. This initiative enables them to become cab drivers by partnering with corporate aggregators like OLA and UBER.
Under this scheme, eligible beneficiaries receive financial assistance, training, and mentoring to ensure a sustainable livelihood. The scheme provides a subsidy of ₹5,00,000 for purchasing a light motor vehicle, which helps them generate revenue and reduce EMI burden.
Benefits
- Financial Assistance: Up to ₹5 lakh subsidy for vehicle purchase.
- Employment Generation: Helps unemployed youth become self-reliant taxi operators.
- Support for SC/ST Taxi Drivers: Covers 1,000 drivers across Karnataka.
- Post-COVID Relief: Assists individuals who lost their jobs during the pandemic.
- Subsidy Coverage:
- 50% subsidy is provided by the government.
- Remaining amount to be arranged by the applicant.
- Government Investment: The Karnataka government has allocated ₹225 crore for this scheme.
- Empowering Marginalized Communities: Special focus on Madiga and related communities.
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must belong to the Scheduled Caste (SC) community.
- The applicant must be a resident of Karnataka.
- The applicant must be above 21 years of age.
- The applicant must hold a valid driving license and cab badge.
- The annual family income should not exceed ₹5,00,000.
- The applicant or their family members must not have received a subsidy exceeding ₹1,00,000 from the Karnataka Government.
- Selection is based on merit, including factors like:
- Age
- Educational qualification
- Cab badge status
- Years of driving experience
Exclusions
- Beneficiaries are required to drive for Ola or Uber in cities where they operate.
- In other districts, the vehicles will be distributed as tourist taxis.
- Mandatory training must be completed before onboarding with Ola/Uber.
Application Process
Online Application Steps
- Visit the Official Website of the Karnataka Government’s Social Welfare Department.
- Click on “Karnataka Airavata Scheme Registration Form” on the homepage.
- You will be redirected to the application form.
- Sign in under the Airavata Scheme portal.
- Fill in all mandatory details in the form.
- Submit the application and note the reference number for future tracking.
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card
- Bonafide Certificate (Proof of Karnataka Residency)
- PAN Card
- Ration Card
- Passport Size Photograph
- Driving License
- Category Certificate (SC Certificate)
- Age Proof Certificate
- Valid Mobile Number
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the Karnataka Airavata Scheme?
The Airavata Scheme is a self-employment initiative for SC youth in Karnataka, offering financial assistance to purchase taxis and partner with Ola/Uber.
Q: How is the scheme implemented?
The Karnataka government collaborates with corporate aggregators like Ola and Uber to facilitate training, vehicle procurement, and employment opportunities.
Q: What financial assistance does the government provide?
The scheme provides a ₹5 lakh subsidy to help SC taxi drivers purchase a light motor vehicle.
Q: What is the budget allocated for this scheme?
The Government of Karnataka has set aside ₹225 crore for the Airavata Scheme.
Q: Who can apply for the scheme?
Only Scheduled Caste (SC) residents of Karnataka who have a valid driving license and cab badge and meet the income criteria can apply.