The much-publicised Pink e-Rickshaw Scheme launched by the Maharashtra Government to promote women’s economic independence has slowed down considerably in Nagpur. Against the target of 2,000 e-Rickshaws, only 20 have actually begun operating, officials from the District Women and Child Welfare Department confirmed. Introduced on June 28, 2024 with a Rs 80 crore budget, the scheme aimed to empower 10,000 women through self-employment opportunities across 17 major cities, including Nagpur. Initially, Nagpur’s target was 1,400 e-Rickshaws, later revised to 2,000. Of the 2,069 women applicants, 1,280 were approved after scrutiny.

 

However, despite approval, many beneficiaries have shown disinterest in purchasing the vehicles, resulting in a sluggish rollout. The scheme provides 20% subsidy on the total cost of each e-Rickshaw, while 70% is financed through bank loans facilitated by the Nodal Department for a five-year term, leaving beneficiaries to bear only 10% of the cost. Officials attribute the slow progress to procedural delays, documentation errors, and lack of enthusiasm among beneficiaries.

 

While the Government’s intention to empower women through mobility and entrepreneurship was widely praised, its poor implementation and weak response have left the Pink e-Rickshaw initiative struggling to meet its objectives. Despite being a promising step towards women’s empowerment, the scheme now risks turning into another missed opportunity unless swift corrective action is taken.