Tamil Nadu Announces Scooter Subsidy for Gig Workers
The Tamil Nadu government has taken a major step toward promoting electric mobility by announcing a ₹20,000 subsidy for gig workers purchasing new electric scooters. This initiative, aimed at 2,000 internet-based service workers registered with the Tamil Nadu Platform-Based Gig Workers Welfare Board, was unveiled in the 2025-26 Budget by Finance Minister Thangam Thenarasu.
✅ Supporting Gig Workers with Sustainable Mobility
Recognizing the increasing number of young workers engaged in internet-based services, the Tamil Nadu government is launching this scheme to support livelihoods and encourage EV adoption. The subsidy will:
- Make e-scooters more affordable for gig workers.
- Reduce operational costs for delivery and ride-hailing service providers.
- Promote a greener environment by shifting toward
✅ Additional Welfare Measures for Gig Workers
Beyond EV incentives, the state government is introducing social security initiatives to enhance the welfare of internet-based service workers:
1. Group Insurance Scheme
- Provides compensation for accidental death and disability.
- Covers approximately 1.5 lakh gig workers in Tamil Nadu.
2. Worker Lounges in Metro Cities
- Fully equipped lounges will be set up in major cities like Chennai and Coimbatore.
- Designed to offer rest and refreshment facilities for gig workers.
✅ Boosting Vocational Training for Construction Workers’ Children
As part of its broader workforce development efforts, the government is also establishing seven new Government Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in districts with a high concentration of construction workers. These ITIs will be set up in Krishnagiri, Tiruvallur, Kanchipuram, Madurai, Trichy, Coimbatore, and Dharmapuri.
Key Highlights:
- Training in six trades to an additional 1,370 students annually.
- Equipped with hostel facilities.
- Funded with ₹148 crore from the Tamil Nadu Construction Workers Welfare Board.
✅ Tamil Nadu’s Commitment to EV Adoption & Workforce Development
The state government’s latest initiatives reflect its commitment to:
- Electrification of urban transport through targeted subsidies.
- Enhancing workforce welfare with social security measures.
- Sustainable urban mobility for gig economy workers.
By offering financial support for EV adoption among gig workers and investing in vocational training, Tamil Nadu is setting a precedent for other states to follow.
