Subject: Enhancing Professionalism in Driving – Establishing Comprehensive Driver Training in ITIs

 Please comment on this draft letter to Minister for Road Transport

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To

Shri Nitin Gadkari,

Hon’ble Minister for Road Transport and Highways,

Government of India,

New Delhi

Subject: Enhancing Professionalism in Driving – Establishing Comprehensive Driver Training in ITIs

Respected Sir,

The Institute of Driving Training and Research (IDTR) is indeed a commendable initiative under the Ministry’s leadership. Such institutes play a vital role in reducing road accidents by imparting scientific and structured training.

However, it is an undeniable fact that a large section of our citizens who hold driving licenses are often unaware of essential road rules, safe driving practices, and defensive driving techniques, especially on multi-lane National Highways. Many lack the practical skills and knowledge required to handle modern traffic conditions safely and efficiently.

Driving, in my view, is a profession that can either take lives if practised half-trained, or save lives, fuel, and precious resources if handled by professionally qualified drivers.

In this regard, I humbly suggest that a six-month comprehensive driving course be introduced across all Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs) in India. Such a course could include:

Theoretical classes on traffic rules, road safety, and defensive driving.

Practical on-road training for various vehicle categories.

Basic knowledge of automobile mechanics and minor repairs.

If implemented, this initiative will produce a new generation of certified professional drivers, creating employment opportunities for youth while significantly improving road safety. It would also help government departments, public sector undertakings, and private companies to engage only certified drivers, ensuring the safety of their staff and the public.

I sincerely request your kind consideration of this proposal and an advisory to all States and Union Territories to introduce such professional driving courses through ITIs nationwide. This will surely contribute to reducing road accidents and raising the standard of driving in India.

Thanking you for your time and kind attention.

Yours faithfully,

V.R. Ajith Kumar

President, PEBS

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