Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 05 March 2025
In a significant step towards skill development and employment generation, the Andaman and Nicobar Administration has inaugurated the first government-owned Motor Driving School in Car Nicobar. The initiative aims to empower local youth, particularly from the tribal community, by providing training in Light Motor Vehicles (LMV) and Heavy Motor Vehicles (HMV) driving.
The new driving school, established within the premises of the State Transport Service (STS) Unit in Car Nicobar, was virtually inaugurated by Chief Secretary Dr. Chandra Bhushan Kumar, IAS, in the presence of senior officials and tribal leaders.
While 36 private motor driving schools operate in South Andaman and North & Middle Andaman, Nicobar District had none. Recognising this gap, the Chief Secretary directed the Transport Department to take necessary action for skill development training, ensuring that local youth, both male and female, benefit from such opportunities.
The school is equipped with classrooms, driving simulators, signboards, spare parts, dual-control vehicles, and other essential tools as per Central Motor Vehicle Laws. Training will be imparted by experienced Motor Vehicle Inspectors and senior drivers posted at the STS Unit, Car Nicobar.
During the inaugural address, the Chief Secretary emphasized the importance of extending government programs and benefits to every resident of the islands. He highlighted that the driving school would not only help local residents learn proper driving techniques but also create employment opportunities, making them eligible for various government and private sector jobs.
To make training accessible, authorities have ensured that the program remains affordable. The initiative has already garnered strong interest from the local population, with numerous applications for training being received.
Alongside the launch of the driving school, the Transport Department has engaged three local youths under its Apprenticeship Program in the fields of motor mechanics and auto electrics at the Car Nicobar Workshop. More eligible candidates will be inducted into the program in the future.
A local-level ceremony was held at the STS Unit premises, where the Deputy Commissioner, Nicobar District, unveiled a plaque marking the establishment of the school. Tribal leaders expressed their gratitude, noting that the initiative eliminates the need for aspiring drivers to travel to Sri Vijaya Puram, thereby reducing financial burdens associated with accommodation and travel.
Local youth aspiring to obtain a driving license now have a training facility within their district, paving the way for self-employment and government job opportunities. The school is expected to significantly benefit the tribal community by enhancing their skill sets and economic prospects.
With the successful launch of the Motor Driving School, the A&N Administration continues its commitment to bringing essential services and skill development opportunities to the doorsteps of its citizens.