ASDC and SIDBI launch initiative to empower disadvantaged people in electric vehicle sector

The Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC) recently launched a new initiative ‘Nayi Raah’ (One Step Forward) at The Kingdom College, Bangalore. Funded by the Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), this transformation program aims to equip 250 underprivileged people with the necessary skills to thrive in the growing electric vehicle (EV) sector. Under the program, they will be trained as proficient electric vehicle service technicians (EVST).

The electric vehicle sector in India is poised for significant growth, driven by technological advancements and growing demand for sustainable transportation solutions. Recognizing this opportunity, ASDC designed ‘Nayi Raah’ to meet the growing industry demand for skilled electric vehicle technicians. The programme will provide comprehensive training in the maintenance, repair and servicing of electric vehicles, equipping participants with the technical knowledge and practical experience required to excel in this dynamic field.

“Nayi Raah represents a key step towards building a skilled workforce capable of supporting India’s transition to electric mobility,” said FR Singhvi, President, ASDC. “By empowering individuals through specialized training, we are not only closing the skills gap, but also creating pathways to meaningful employment in the electric vehicle industry. This initiative underlines ASDC’s commitment to driving inclusive growth and supporting sustainable development in the automotive sector.”

ASDC, a pioneer in automotive skills development, aims to improve the employability of young people through industry-specific training programmes. Focusing on practical skills and industry-relevant certifications, ASDC works closely with car manufacturers, training partners and government bodies to ensure its programmes meet the changing demands of the industry.

This partnership not only provides funding for training, but also enables ASDC to implement a solid program framework and provide participants with state-of-the-art training facilities.

Participants in the ‘Nayi Raah’ program will undergo rigorous training modules covering the fundamentals of electric vehicle technology, diagnostic techniques, battery management systems and safety protocols. Practical training will be complemented by industry internships and on-the-job training, ensuring comprehensive skills development and work readiness. All trainees will be further trained at Tata bus depots and employed at 8 depots in Bengaluru, providing them with real-world experience and employment opportunities in the growing EV infrastructure in the city.

“At Tata Motors, we believe in equipping the future workforce with the right skills to navigate the changing landscape of electric mobility,” said Srinivas Dhanankar, Director, GM Procurement and Procurement, Tata Motors. “We are proud to support the ‘Nayi Raah’ initiative, which is in line with our commitment to sustainability and community development. The training at our bus depots will provide participants with invaluable hands-on experience, preparing them for a successful career in the electric vehicle sector.”

Sandeep Varma, CEO, CGTMSE and Vertical Head, Development Programs and Vertical Impact Initiatives, SIDBI, shared his thoughts on the initiative, “At SIDBI, we believe in the transformative power of skill development. ‘Nayi Raah’ is an example of our commitment to supporting inclusive growth by providing underprivileged people with the skills they need to thrive in the emerging electric vehicle sector. This initiative is a testament to the impact of our collective efforts in fostering sustainable development and creating meaningful employment opportunities.”