There was a time when Punjab’s roads carried a silent despair. Vehicles moved, but the hearths in many homes had gone cold. Amid this gloom, the Bhagwant Mann government shifted a ‘gear’—a gear that didn’t just sound like a horn, but echoed with the rhythm of hope. This is the story of a transformative initiative by the Transport Department, under which 27,500 young people have received high-level driver training. This is not just a government scheme; it is an emotional commitment to bring the dream of ‘Rangla Punjab’ to life.
Since June 2023, under the leadership of the Mann government, the Punjab Transport Department has successfully trained 27,500 drivers at the Regional Driving Training Centre (RDTC) in Malerkotla. This centre was established in collaboration with Ashok Leyland Limited. The core aim of this initiative is to provide both rural and urban youth with professional driving skills, bridge the shortage of qualified commercial drivers, and promote road safety.
Looking ahead, the state also plans to strengthen training facilities by setting up driving schools at 21 automated driving test tracks across Punjab. For the past four years, the office of the State Transport Commissioner has also been empaneling agencies to deliver online training solutions for residents.
The Mann government has not limited this training to just vehicle handling. Drivers are being trained to respond to emergencies, practice road discipline, and prioritize passenger safety. With modern vehicles and advanced technology, trainees are building a broader understanding that goes beyond traditional driving. This training is a bridge—built over the gap of unemployment—connecting Punjab’s youth to respectable opportunities not just in the state transport fleet, but also in the national and international logistics sector. The figure of 27,500 is not just a number; it represents a promise to uplift 27,500 families.
Punjab’s Transport Minister, Laljit Singh Bhullar, highlighted that this training centre reflects the government’s strong commitment to enhancing driving skills, promoting road safety, and uplifting the social standing of drivers. The Malerkotla RDTC is transforming Punjab’s driving landscape and inspiring a new generation of skilled drivers who are conscious of safety.
This initiative proves that the government’s focus is not only on infrastructure but also on human resources. A skilled driver not only reduces accidents but also improves transport efficiency and reliability. It is, therefore, an investment with returns for the entire society—safer roads, better travel experiences, and faster economic growth.
The message to Punjab’s youth is loud and clear: “Your hard work and sweat will not go in vain. This soil has given you talent, and the Mann government will recognize and empower it.”
