Rajiv Gandhi Swarojgar Startup Yojana: Boosting Self-Employment in Himachal

Dharamshala, November 27: R.S. Bali, the Chairman of the Tourism Corporation, announced that the Rajiv Gandhi Swarojgar Startup Yojana would provide opportunities for self-employment to the youth. This initiative, allocating a budget of 680 crores, marks the commencement of the first phase of the program, focusing on the E-taxi scheme in Kangra and Nargota.

In the first phase, 500 permits for E-taxis will be issued, with the possibility of increasing this number based on demand. The state government aims to provide E-taxis to unemployed youth, offering a 50% subsidy on their purchase. Additionally, the scheme includes relaxed conditions for loans, ensuring accessibility to financial support.

Chairman Bali highlighted that the government is extending the subsidy to the purchase of E-buses and E-trucks as part of this initiative. Private bus operators have also been issued 24 permits for E-buses. The state is actively establishing 17 charging stations for E-vehicles in the next two months, supporting the integration of electric transport.

In the upcoming phases of the Rajiv Gandhi Swarojgar Startup Yojana, the government plans to encourage youth to undertake solar energy projects for livelihood and subsidize agricultural activities. Furthermore, 90% subsidies are proposed for youth engaged in fisheries, promoting sustainable practices in aquaculture.

The Chairman affirmed the commitment of the Congress Party to fulfill all promises made in its manifesto. The reimplementation of the old pension scheme in the first cabinet meeting is cited as evidence of the government’s dedication to fulfilling its commitments. The youth-centric startup scheme aligns with the party’s promise to empower young entrepreneurs and contribute to their self-reliance.