Online cab service provider Uber on Wednesday launched the "own your car" scheme in partnership with the Telangana government.
Under the scheme, launched in association with Backward Classes Welfare Corporation and Tribal Welfare Corporation, financial assistance will be provided to candidates from backward classes and scheduled tribes to help them become full-time commercial drivers-cum-owners.
The government will provide 60 per cent upfront subsidy on the on-road price of a commercial car (select models only).
Uber will assist the department in qualification and selection of the beneficiaries, coordinating with the financiers and dealers and subsequently provide training to them on technology, navigation, driver etiquette and other soft skills.
The scheme was launched by Telangana's Minister for Scheduled Tribes Development.
The Tribal Welfare Department and BC Welfare Department aims to sponsor a total of 1,000 cars under this scheme in 2016.
"Uber is committed towards encouraging micro entrepreneurship and building skilled labour across cities. We look forward to this collaboration with the government of Telangana to assist the beneficiaries with necessary training and vehicle financing, additionally, to empower them with technology and digital innovation," said Deepak Reddy, General Manager, Uber Telangana & Andhra Pradesh.