Bhubaneswar: The Commerce and Transport Department convened a meeting with SLBC member banks to launch the new AMA SuVahak – Atmanirbhar Mahila SuVahak scheme and to ensure coordinated efforts for its smooth and successful execution.
The meeting was chaired by Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary, Commerce and Transport Department. Amitabh Thakur, Transport Commissioner and senior representatives from leading public and private sector banks attended the meeting.
Padhee said that AMA SuVahak is a transformative empowerment-linked livelihood initiative aimed at bringing gender balance to the driving profession, promoting women entrepreneurship, and ensuring safe, dignified mobility in Odisha. She urged banks to adopt fast-track loan processing, simplified documentation, and dedicated facilitation desks to support women beneficiaries.
Thakur highlighted that the scheme offers interest-free loans for purchasing four-wheelers (LMVs), along with assistance for licensing, structured driving training, and entrepreneurship opportunities through the Odisha Yatri platform. He assured full cooperation from the Transport Department and district authorities for the timely onboarding of applicants.
Banks expressed strong support and agreed to extend financing through target-based loan sanctions, simplified norms, and actionable steps to ensure timely disbursal and improved outreach.
The scheme aims to create 1,100 AMA SuVahaks over four years—200 in 2025–26, 250 in 2026–27, 300 in 2027–28, and 350 in 2028–29. Eligible women must be 21–40 years old, with an annual family income below Rs 3 lakh, and trained at any of the four Institutes of Driving Training & Research (IDTRs) in Odisha.
The Government will provide 10% as down payment, pay interest during the three-month moratorium, cover CGTMSE charges, and bear the annual interest, in addition to offering handholding support to ensure regular engagement of vehicles.
The Department noted that AMA SuVahak will not only ensure financial independence for women but also build a new cadre of skilled women drivers, contributing to safer mobility and inclusive economic growth across Odisha.
