Andhra Pradesh Launches 'Auto Drivers Sevalo' Scheme: Enhanced Financial Aid and Digital Innovation for Over 2.9 Lakh Auto Drivers
The Andhra Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, has launched a groundbreaking welfare initiative named the "Auto Drivers Sevalo" scheme, aiming to support over 2.9 lakh auto, cab, and maxi cab drivers across the state with direct financial aid and innovative digital services. Officially inaugurated on October 4, 2025, this Rs 436 crore program marks a significant step in recognizing and compensating auto drivers for livelihood challenges faced in recent years.
Financial Assistance and Scheme Details
Under this ambitious initiative, each eligible auto driver will receive Rs 15,000 annually as direct financial assistance from the government. This amount is Rs 5,000 more than the previous Vahana Mitra scheme, reflecting a substantial uplift in support. The beneficiaries comprise 225,621 autorickshaw drivers, 38,576 passenger vehicle drivers, 20,072 motocab drivers, and 6,400 maxi cab drivers, distributed throughout Andhra Pradesh, with Visakhapatnam recording the highest number of recipients at 22,955.
The scheme is particularly designed to compensate drivers who experienced income loss due to the state's 'Stree Shakti' scheme, which provides free bus travel for women, thereby reducing demand for paid auto rides. The government has assured that this financial aid will provide much-needed relief and strengthen the livelihoods of drivers throughout the region.
Digital Innovation: Ride-Booking App for Auto Drivers
Highlighting the government's commitment to modernization, CM Naidu announced the upcoming launch of a government-operated ride-booking app tailored for auto drivers, drawing inspiration from popular platforms like Uber and Ola. The app is expected to connect customers directly with auto drivers, allowing drivers to receive ride bookings without the traditional wait at auto stands.
This initiative aims to enhance the efficiency and earnings of auto drivers by digitally empowering them and improving access to passengers. Initially, the app will be piloted in major cities such as Visakhapatnam and Vijayawada, followed by a broader rollout across the state by 2026.
Welfare and Support Measures
Apart from financial aid and digital tools, the government has established an Auto Drivers' Welfare Board to safeguard drivers' interests and promote long-term welfare. Significant policy reforms include the cancellation of unnecessary government orders related to fines, a reduction in the green tax from Rs 20,000 to Rs 3,000, and plans for converting vehicles to electric models with governmental support.
A dedicated control room will manage the ride-booking app, and revenue generated will be reinvested in the welfare board to further benefit the drivers. Additionally, over 200,000 registered auto drivers will be integrated into this digital platform, facilitating easier booking management, fare calculation, and seamless digital payments, while offering passengers safer, fixed-rate travel options.
Political and Local Impact
The launch ceremony saw the attendance of key figures such as Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan and Union Minister Pemmasani Chandrasekhar, who acknowledged the scheme as a crucial step towards fulfilling government promises and addressing drivers' income losses. Local impact was also highlighted in Guntur district, where 13,193 drivers received a total aid of Rs 21.56 crore under this program.
The government’s multi-pronged approach combining enhanced financial backing with digital innovation reflects an understanding of the evolving urban transport ecosystem and the need to empower auto drivers as stakeholders in this change.
Conclusion
The 'Auto Drivers Sevalo' scheme indicates Andhra Pradesh’s progressive approach toward supporting transport workers by blending financial aid, welfare policies, and digital empowerment. By providing direct monetary assistance, reducing burdensome taxes, and introducing a ride-booking app designed specifically for auto drivers, the state government is setting an example of inclusive growth focused on sustainable livelihoods.
This initiative is expected to improve income stability for thousands of drivers, stimulate local economic participation, and enhance commuter convenience across Andhra Pradesh, positioning the state as a leader in transport sector welfare innovations.