India’s first all-women electric bus driver training programme has completed training for 20 recruits in Odisha, marking a milestone in inclusive urban mobility. The initiative prepares women drivers to operate electric buses across public transport networks, combining technical instruction with operational readiness for modern EV platforms.
The programme aligns with India’s growing focus on electric bus deployment in cities while promoting workforce diversity within the commercial transport sector.
Building Technical Skills for Electric Bus Operations
The training equips recruits with skills tailored to electric bus systems, including operational procedures, safety protocols, and vehicle handling in urban conditions. As electric buses feature different drivetrain and energy management characteristics compared to conventional diesel buses, structured training ensures safe and efficient operations.
Developing specialised EV driver capability is increasingly critical as states expand electric fleet procurement.
Advancing Gender Inclusion in Public Transport
The initiative also addresses gender representation in heavy vehicle driving roles, traditionally underrepresented by women. By enabling structured participation in electric public transport, the programme promotes inclusive economic opportunities alongside clean mobility objectives.
The successful completion of training for 20 recruits establishes a replicable framework for other states seeking to combine electrification goals with social inclusion in public transport systems.
