Himachal Pradesh Launches Electric Taxi Fleet to Boost Green Mobility and Youth Employment – EQ
In Short : Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched 18 electric taxis under the Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Start-Up Scheme (RGSSY) to promote green mobility and youth employment. Beneficiaries received a 50% subsidy, with assured income for five years. The state is also investing in electric buses, charging infrastructure, and green corridors, reinforcing its commitment to sustainability and a greener economy.
In Detail : Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu launched a fleet of 18 electric taxis under the Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Start-Up Scheme (RGSSY) on October 15, 2025. The initiative aims to promote green mobility while creating self-employment opportunities for the youth across the state.
The launch took place at the CM’s official residence, Oakover, in Shimla. Beneficiaries include youth from multiple districts, with four from Shimla, three each from Kangra and Kinnaur, two each from Chamba, Kullu, and Solan, and one each from Hamirpur and Sirmaur.
The state government provided a total subsidy of ₹1.28 crore for these e-taxis. Under the RGSSY, beneficiaries receive a 50% subsidy on vehicle purchases, making electric mobility more accessible for young entrepreneurs and supporting the adoption of clean transportation solutions.
So far, ₹5.64 crore has been disbursed to 79 eligible youth across Himachal Pradesh. Additionally, the government has allocated ₹66.41 crore for electric vehicle purchases in the current financial year, demonstrating a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and reducing fossil fuel dependence.
The e-taxis will be attached to government departments and corporations, ensuring beneficiaries have an assured income for five years, with a provision for a two-year extension. This guarantees both employment stability and the promotion of green transport services.
Chief Minister Sukhu highlighted efforts to reduce diesel vehicles in government offices. Under the RGSSY, young individuals purchasing a vehicle pay only 10% of the cost, with the government covering the remaining 90%, encouraging widespread adoption of electric vehicles.
The launch is part of a broader strategy to advance green energy and reduce carbon emissions. Himachal Pradesh has tendered for 297 electric buses at a cost of ₹412 crore and is developing charging infrastructure worth ₹124 crore to support EV adoption.
The state is also establishing six green corridors and 41 additional charging stations to create a conducive ecosystem for electric vehicles. These initiatives aim to accelerate the shift toward sustainable mobility across Himachal Pradesh.
Through the RGSSY and related programs, Himachal Pradesh is making significant progress toward a greener future. By promoting electric mobility and providing self-employment opportunities, the state sets an example for combining environmental sustainability with youth empowerment.
