In a public-private partnership initiative, Tata Motors launched its commercial vehicle driving centre in Singrauli, jointly with Urjanchal Driving School.

The centre was inaugurated by Shivraj Singh Chauhan, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh, along with senior officials from Tata Motors.

Tata Motors has designed the course content, provided technical assistance, know-how and guidance, while Pratham Institute, a national non-governmental organisation, has been roped in as the implementation partner.

The training centre is well equipped with classrooms and a testing track. This institute will operate in two modules, one for light commercial vehicles and the other for heavy commercial vehicles and would conduct audio-video methodology and practical sessions.

India ranks highest in the world with about 1.43 lakh road fatalities annually (as per a report published by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways - June 2012). There is also a shortage of trained drivers in the country. Starting 2010, National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) has estimated a demand for over 50 lakh drivers, over a period of 12 years.

>rajesh.kurup@thehindu.co.in

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