Maharashtra Launches Welfare Board for Auto Rickshaw and Taxi Drivers; Senior Drivers to Get ₹10,000 Honorarium
Mumbai: In a significant step towards providing social security for auto rickshaw and meter taxi drivers, Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Indirabai Baburao Sarnaik has announced the establishment of the Dharmaveer Anand Dighe Maharashtra Auto Rickshaw and Meter Taxi Drivers’ Welfare Board. The initiative aims to support the large but often unorganized sector of rickshaw and taxi drivers by offering financial aid, insurance, and reward schemes.
As a key welfare measure, Minister Sarnaik announced a one-time honorarium grant of ₹10,000 for senior auto rickshaw and taxi drivers aged 65 and above, provided they have been registered for at least five years. Around 14,387 drivers across Maharashtra are estimated to benefit from this scheme.
A Dedicated Board for Driver Welfare
The Dharmaveer Anand Dighe Saheb Maharashtra Auto Rickshaw and Meter Taxi Drivers’ Welfare Board was officially established on January 27, 2025, on the birth anniversary of Anand Dighe Saheb. The board has been formed under the vision of the then Chief Minister and current Deputy Chief Minister, Eknath Shinde.
To ensure the effective implementation of welfare schemes, the Maharashtra government has allocated ₹50 crore as the initial fund for the board. This fund will support multiple social security measures for drivers, including:
- Health insurance, life insurance, and disability insurance
- Scholarship programs for the children of auto and taxi drivers
- Annual award schemes for the best drivers, driver organizations, and rickshaw stands
Minister Sarnaik emphasized that the board will serve as an exemplary institution, ensuring that drivers receive the social benefits they deserve.
Membership Registration and Welfare Benefits
To avail of these welfare benefits, drivers need to register with the board by paying a one-time registration fee of ₹500 and an annual subscription fee of ₹300. To streamline the process, a dedicated online portal has been launched, allowing drivers to register conveniently through their mobile phones.
One of the notable initiatives introduced under the board is the Retirement Honor Scheme, under which senior drivers will receive ₹10,000 as a token of appreciation for their years of service. The board is also working on implementing comprehensive health and life insurance schemes, along with scholarships for the children of auto and taxi drivers.
Additionally, in the unfortunate event that a driver gets injured while on duty, the welfare board will provide financial assistance to help cover medical expenses.
Encouraging Excellence with Reward Schemes
To motivate and recognize the contributions of drivers, the board has announced annual reward schemes. Awards will be presented for:
- Best rickshaw and taxi driver
- Best rickshaw and taxi driver association
- Best rickshaw stand
These awards aim to encourage professionalism and excellence in the sector while giving much-needed recognition to hardworking drivers.
First Meeting Attended by Key Officials
The first meeting of the welfare board, where these decisions were announced, was held in Mumbai and was attended by Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimrao and all members of the board. During the meeting, Minister Sarnaik reiterated the government’s commitment to enhancing the financial security and social well-being of auto rickshaw and taxi drivers.
He also assured that additional driver-centric schemes will be introduced in the future to further support their livelihoods.
A Milestone in Maharashtra’s Transport Sector
With nearly 9-10 lakh auto rickshaw and meter taxi drivers operating across Maharashtra, the formation of this welfare board marks a major milestone in the state’s transport sector. By providing financial assistance, social security, and recognition, the government aims to uplift and empower these drivers who play a crucial role in urban mobility.
As the initiative rolls out, drivers across the state can look forward to better financial stability, healthcare benefits, and opportunities for professional recognition. The Maharashtra government’s proactive approach signals a positive change in the working conditions of thousands of drivers, ensuring they receive the respect and support they rightfully deserve.
