SuVahak Project Opens Doors to Japanese Jobs for Odisha Drivers
In a major milestone, drivers trained under Odisha’s SuVahak project at the Institute of Driving Training and Research (IDTR) are now set to secure employment in Japan. This follows a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Odisha’s Commerce and Transport Department and Bengaluru-based Navis HR, backed by a Japanese placement firm.
The IDTRs provide comprehensive training programs, including advanced licenses and refresher courses, free of charge, benefiting numerous drivers, especially from marginalized communities. Recently, Navis HR selected 30 out of 180 candidates for the first phase of employment in Japan. These drivers were honored by Commerce & Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhushan Jena, with Principal Secretary Usha Padhee and Transport Commissioner Amitabh Thakur in attendance.
Project SuVahak, launched in collaboration with Palladium, aims to enhance the skills of Heavy Motor Vehicle (HMV) drivers, who are responsible for around 21% of fatal road accidents in Odisha. To date, 4,488 new drivers have been trained, while 21,964 have undergone refresher courses. The project has also trained 99 women and six transgender individuals and has provided employment to 1,254 drivers. Notably, HMV drivers trained under SuVahak have maintained an accident-free record.
Minister Jena expressed his delight at this development, stating, “It gives me immense pleasure that we are able to provide employment to our people in a friendly country like Japan. This will enthuse and motivate others too. This will be a regular process.” He emphasized the department’s ongoing efforts under road safety, highlighting that drivers trained under SuVahak are highly skilled and have received appreciation from their employers.
Kailas Patil, Director of Palladium India, remarked, “Odisha faces a troubling average of 14 road accidents daily, with untrained drivers being a significant cause. Through project SuVahak, we are ensuring that road safety is the first priority for HMV drivers. We are thrilled to see that the project has not only improved road safety in Odisha but has also opened up new employment opportunities for these drivers in Japan.”
The SuVahak project marks a significant achievement in promoting safe driving practices and creating international employment opportunities, showcasing Odisha’s commitment to enhancing driver skills and road safety.
