Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Startup Scheme: Empowering Himachal’s Youth with Sustainable Livelihoods
2 min read
Shimla, October 19, 2025
The Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Startup Scheme, launched by the Himachal Pradesh Government, is transforming the lives of the state’s youth by providing them with opportunities for self-reliance, dignity, and sustainable income. The initiative not only supports unemployed youth financially but also encourages them to explore eco-friendly and technology-driven ventures.
So far, 79 eligible beneficiaries have received ₹5.64 crore in subsidies under the scheme, helping them establish electric taxi (e-taxi) businesses across the state. These e-taxis are now operating with various government departments, boards, and corporations, ensuring steady monthly income for the owners.
The scheme offers 50% government subsidy, 40% bank loan, and requires only 10% contribution from the beneficiary. Each e-taxi is contracted for five years, extendable by two years, guaranteeing stable employment and income security. Beneficiaries can earn around ₹50,000 to ₹75,000 per month, depending on location and usage.
To promote transparency and accessibility, a dedicated online portal was launched in August 2024, enabling applicants to submit documents digitally, including residence proof, Aadhaar, income, and driving credentials. Applicants must be permanent residents of Himachal Pradesh, at least 23 years old, and have valid driving licenses with seven to ten years of experience.
Highlighting success stories, Manish Kumar from Narkanda shared that he purchased a ₹26 lakh e-taxi with ₹12 lakh government subsidy under the scheme. His vehicle is deployed with the General Administration Department at the Himachal Secretariat, earning him ₹75,000 per month. Similarly, Anil Kumar from Nankhri now operates his e-taxi with the Jal Shakti Department in Rampur, achieving both financial independence and social respect.
For the fiscal year 2025–26, the state has earmarked ₹66.41 crore for the scheme. Recently, 18 e-taxis were flagged off from Oak Over by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, providing over ₹1.28 crore in subsidies to beneficiaries across districts including Chamba, Hamirpur, Kangra, Kullu, Kinnaur, Shimla, Solan, and Sirmaur.
The Rajiv Gandhi Self-Employment Startup Scheme stands as a symbol of the government’s commitment to empowering youth, fostering green mobility, and steering Himachal Pradesh toward a cleaner, self-reliant, and inclusive future.
