Government to Implement Graded Driving License System

Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari stated that the government is preparing major changes in the driving license system. Under the new graded system, points will be deducted from drivers' licenses for traffic violations, and licenses can be suspended or canceled for repeated offenses.

According to Minister Nitin Gadkari, the proposed system aims to promote responsible driving habits among vehicle drivers and reduce road accidents. The government is also emphasizing aligning driver training with international standards. Along with this, preparations are underway to overhaul the entire system related to driver training, licensing, and road safety.

Once the proposed point system is implemented, strict action can be taken against drivers who repeatedly ignore rules. Points will be assigned based on the severity of the violation. If a driver's points reach a certain limit, their driving license can be suspended or canceled. This means that repeatedly breaking rules by just paying fines will no longer be easy.

The government is working towards this graded system to make the driving license system more effective. Its objective is to monitor driving behavior based on records and take phased action against drivers who repeatedly violate rules. Once such a system is implemented, a license will not only be a document permitting vehicle operation but will also serve as an important record of traffic behavior.

Efforts are also being made to upgrade the entire ecosystem related to crash safety with new options to reduce deaths and serious injuries in road accidents. The government's focus is on improving driver training, licensing, and road safety at all three levels.

The minister has also appealed to states to move forward regarding bike taxi services. He said that private two-wheeler owners can be allowed to carry passengers through bike taxis, but some states are yet to approve such services. Since transport is a state subject, the decision to approve bike taxis and set related rules will rest with the respective state governments.

In the event of the expansion of bike taxi services, the driver's license, permit, insurance, and compliance with traffic rules will play a crucial role. However, rules may vary from state to state. Therefore, it would not be correct to assume immediate permission to operate private bikes as commercial bike taxis.

Gadkari claimed that promoting bike taxi services could create livelihood opportunities for about 80 million people. Especially in rural areas and regions with limited employment options, bike taxis could become a source of additional income. However, maintaining road safety alongside increasing employment will also be a major challenge.

The government does not want to limit itself to changes in the licensing system alone. Its aim is to provide better training to new and existing drivers and promote safe driving behavior on the roads. The government emphasizes preparing drivers who follow rules and drive responsibly on the road.