Delhi plans 1,300 e-auto permits for women and transgender drivers under DURGA scheme

Delhi plans to offer 1,300 electric-auto permits to women and transgender persons through its proposed DURGA scheme, with 100 permits earmarked for each of the city’s 13 districts.

Ninety per cent of the permits would go to women and the remaining 10% to transgender applicants. The government intends to issue letters of intent to selected applicants, who may be chosen through a draw of lots after applications are invited on a dedicated portal.

Applicants would need to be aged 20 to 40, have a family income below Rs 5 lakh and not already own a three-wheeler. Only one woman from a family would qualify; married women with children would be eligible if their children are below 18.

The plan includes linking drivers with online cab and auto aggregators, and facilitating stands near Delhi Metro and RRTS stations where passenger demand is high. Officials are also considering charging facilities and designated parking at these locations.

Under the Delhi EV Policy 2026-30, buyers could receive a Rs 50,000 purchase incentive in the first year, alongside exemption from road tax and registration fees. The proposal will be sent to the cabinet for consideration and approval.