NEW DELHI: Maruti Suzuki India Limited has achieved yet another important milestone under its CSR program. The Company has successfully trained 15000 tribal youth in driving training, making them employable. These students were trained at its All Gujarat Institute of Driving, Technical Training and Research (AGIDTTR) situated in Waghodia, Gujarat, the company said.
Of the candidates trained, 70% have secured employment or have taken up the role of an entrepreneur. The achievement coincides with the institution completing 10 years of its inauguration.
AGIDTTR was established in 2009 as a public-private-partnership model between the Ministry of Tribal Development (Gujarat) and Maruti Suzuki. Through its comprehensive driver training programs, the institute has consistently focused to provide skills set for gainful employment opportunities to tribal youth.
Apart from the scientifically designed course curriculum, the state-of-the-art institute provides practical training through facilities like driving training track and driving training simulators. Further, the institute uses ARITRA, a camera based image processing technology to enhance learning.
On the occasion, Ajay Kumar Tomer, Executive Advisor, Corporate Planning and CSR, Maruti Suzuki India Limited, said, “AGIDTTR Vadodara is a perfect example of Government and industry coming together to bring about an affirmative change in the society. For the past 10 years, our expertise in training the students in safe driving, along with the support of the state government has resulted in smooth functioning of the institute. The enthusiasm of the youth towards learning driving and their aspirations to explore newer horizons has contributed immensely to the success of this initiative.”
He added, “Each student passing out of this institute is an inspiration for us to further expand the scope of our initiatives. They come from very humble backgrounds, most of them belonging to economically weaker sections of the society. The training bolsters their determination and dedication towards achieving their dreams of a better future. Today, these students have become the breadwinners for their families. It is through initiatives like these that we are able to generate value through interventions, making these youth a part of the mainstream economy.”
The course curriculum at this unique ‘residential driving school’ is designed to incorporate basic life skills training and all-round personality development. The 30 to 45-day course equips the candidates to drive light motor vehicles (LMV), commercial vehicles, heavy motor vehicles, buses and forklifts.
The initiative is line with the areas of CSR intervention for Maruti Suzuki India Limited, namely Community Development, Skill Development and Road Safety.
