Pune: To enhance the safety of women passengers and support self-reliance among women, the Maharashtra state government has launched the ‘Pink E-Rickshaw’ scheme. This initiative provides financial assistance for women to purchase e-rickshaws, with priority given to women below the poverty line, widows, and divorcees.

Under the scheme, eligible women will need to contribute only 10% of the vehicle's cost. The state government will cover 20%, and the remaining 70% will be provided as a loan through nationalized, urban cooperative, or district central cooperative banks. Agreements with these banks have already been finalized to facilitate the process.

The scheme, introduced under the 'Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin' initiative, has gained significant attention and appreciation from women, highlighting its importance in addressing their needs.

Eligibility and Support:

The scheme is available to women aged 20 to 40 years who are residents of Maharashtra and have an annual family income of less than ₹3 lakh. Applicants must have a bank account, and priority will be given to women from economically and socially vulnerable groups.

Applicants must provide essential documents, including voter ID, Aadhaar and PAN cards, a domicile certificate or 15-year-old ration card, an income certificate, and a bank passbook.

Economic and Social Benefits:

The state government aims to improve women’s economic conditions by providing self-employment opportunities through the Pink E-Rickshaw scheme. Beneficiaries will also have a five-year loan repayment period, making the initiative accessible and sustainable.