The Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC), in collaboration with BluSmart, South Asia’s largest all-electric ride-hailing service and EV charging infrastructure network, successfully hosted the convocation ceremony for Project Sakhi. Supported by the SIDBI Swavalamban Foundation, this initiative aims to empower women by equipping them with the necessary skills to become proficient electric vehicle (EV) drivers, fostering gender inclusivity in India’s mobility sector.
The event, held at the Driver Training Institute, Burari, Delhi, marked a significant milestone in promoting women’s participation in a traditionally male-dominated industry. During the ceremony, ASDC awarded certificates to nearly 50 women from underprivileged backgrounds who have successfully completed their training and have now been placed with BluSmart across Delhi-NCR. Meanwhile, an additional 50 women continue their three-month training program, receiving hands-on instruction in safe and efficient EV driving.
Through Project Sakhi, ASDC and BluSmart are equipping women with not only essential driving skills but also comprehensive knowledge of electric vehicles. This includes understanding unique EV features, sustainable driving practices, and operational best practices, enabling them to navigate their professional roles with confidence. By fostering financial independence and career growth, the initiative is breaking gender barriers in the mobility sector and contributing to a more diverse workforce.
Transforming Lives Through Skill Development
Speaking at the event, Mr. Vinkesh Gulati, Vice-President, ASDC, highlighted the initiative’s transformative impact:
“Project Sakhi is more than just a training program; it is a step towards women’s empowerment and self-reliance. By providing essential skills and sustainable employment opportunities, we are enabling women to build confidence and thrive in non-traditional roles. When women achieve financial independence, they uplift their families and communities, driving broader social and economic progress. ASDC is committed to expanding such initiatives to ensure more women can build successful careers in the EV and automotive sectors.”
Echoing this sentiment, Anirudh Arun, CEO – BluSmart Fleet, reinforced BluSmart’s commitment to inclusive mobility:
“At BluSmart, we believe true progress comes from empowering women and creating opportunities in industries where they have been underrepresented. Project Sakhi is a testament to the power of skill development in not only providing employment for over 150 women driver partners but also fostering long-term change. We are grateful to ASDC for this partnership, which is driving meaningful transformation and expanding employment opportunities in electric mobility.”
Driving Change in India’s Electric Mobility Landscape
The convocation ceremony brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and training partners, reaffirming their collective commitment to closing the gender gap in the automotive workforce. The initiative aligns with Delhi’s vision for sustainable urban mobility and supports the national agenda for green transport solutions, equipping women with the expertise needed to contribute to India’s evolving electric mobility ecosystem.
With continued industry collaboration and policy support, ASDC aims to expand similar programs, enabling more women to enter skilled roles within the automotive and transportation sectors.
About ASDC
The Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC) is India’s first sector skill council dedicated to the automobile industry. Promoted by the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), Automotive Component Manufacturers Association (ACMA), and Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations of India (FADA), ASDC is supported by:
- Ministry of Heavy Industries (MHI)
- Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)
- Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE)
- National Council for Vocational Education and Training (NCVET) (accredited awarding body)
- National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC)
For more details, visit ASDC’s official website.
