The implementation of Maharashtra's Chief Minister's Pink E-Rickshaw Scheme has been questioned after only 130 women were reported to have received vehicles, despite the programme having been launched nearly two years ago with the objective of distributing 10,000 electric rickshaws to women across 17 cities. The issue was highlighted in the Maharashtra Legislative Council, where concerns were expressed over the significant gap between applications received and actual beneficiaries.
It was disclosed by Women and Child Development Minister Aditi Tatkare that 9,440 applications had been submitted under the scheme since its introduction in 2024. However, only a small number of applicants had been able to complete the process and receive e-rickshaws. A commitment was made by the government that implementation would be accelerated, with efforts being directed towards ensuring that at least 5,000 women are provided with vehicles during the current year.
The scheme was designed to strengthen women's economic participation by enabling them to operate electric rickshaws as a source of income. Financial assistance was structured through a combination of a 20% government subsidy, a 70% bank loan, and a 10% contribution from the beneficiary. A budget allocation of ₹80 crore had been made for the initiative, reflecting the state's intention to encourage women-led entrepreneurship in the transport sector.
During the discussion, several practical challenges were identified as major reasons for the slow implementation. It was argued that many eligible applicants had been unable to secure bank loans because of stringent CIBIL score requirements. Delays associated with obtaining Regional Transport Office (RTO) badges were also cited as obstacles. In addition, concerns were raised over the availability of charging infrastructure for electric vehicles and the quality of training provided to prospective beneficiaries.
Further criticism was directed at the implementation process after allegations were made that agents had become involved, even though the scheme had originally been introduced without the need for RTO registration. Such developments were said to have created additional complications for applicants attempting to access the benefits.
The government also acknowledged that implementation had been affected by the intentions of some applicants, who had reportedly sought to rent out the vehicles instead of operating them personally. This issue was stated to have influenced the pace at which approvals and vehicle distribution were being carried out.
Although the programme has experienced considerable delays, renewed efforts have been promised by the state government. With thousands of applications already received and substantial public funds allocated, greater attention is expected to be given to resolving financing issues, improving administrative coordination, strengthening charging infrastructure, and ensuring that eligible women are able to benefit from the scheme as originally envisioned. The coming months are likely to determine whether the revised target of reaching 5,000 beneficiaries can be achieved.
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