About DURGA Scheme
- The DURGA (Driving Upliftment and Rozgar for Women/Transgender Green e-Auto) Scheme, approved by the Delhi Cabinet,
- It aims to provide self-employment and economic empowerment to women and transgender persons while promoting clean urban transport.
Core Objectives of DURGA Scheme
- Self-Employment & Inclusion: Enables women and transgender persons to own and operate electric autos.
- Safety & Connectivity: Improves safety and last-mile connectivity, especially during odd hours.
- Clean Transport: Promotes zero-emission and sustainable urban mobility.
- Job Creation: Creates jobs in servicing, charging, repairs and battery recycling.
Vehicle Allocation & Key Features of the Scheme
- First Phase: 1,300 pink e-autos—1,170 for women and 130 for transgender persons.
- District Quota: Maximum 90 for women and 10 for transgender persons per revenue district.
- DURGA Branding: Vehicles will have special DURGA branding and identification.
- Three-Year Lock-in: E-autos cannot be sold or transferred for three years.
Eligibility Criteria to Apply for DURGA Scheme
Women Applicants
- Age: 20–40 years.
- Residency: Delhi resident with valid voter ID.
- Licence: Valid Light Motor Vehicle licence and Public Service Vehicle badge.
- Income: Family income ≤ ₹5 lakh in FY 2025–26.
- Vehicle: Family must not own a transport vehicle or three-wheeler.
- Family: Applicants with more than three children are ineligible.
Transgender Applicants
- Must have a valid transgender certificate from a Delhi District Magistrate.
- Must meet the same age, residency, licence and income requirements as women applicants.
Financial & Infrastructure Support
- Budget: ₹20 Crore for purchase subsidies and interest support.
- Application: Online application through a dedicated portal.
- Charging Infrastructure: EV charging facilities at 70 Delhi Metro stations.
Conclusion
The DURGA Scheme promotes inclusive self-employment for women and transgender persons while strengthening clean and safe urban mobility in Delhi.
It combines livelihood support, social inclusion and electric mobility to advance sustainable urban transport.
| This article has been elaborately explained in the following article — ‘DURGA’ Scheme |