Vahana Mitra – ₹10,000/Year for Auto & Taxi Drivers in Andhra Pradesh

Vahana Mitra is a financial assistance scheme by the Government of Andhra Pradesh that provides ₹10,000 per year to auto-rickshaw drivers, taxi drivers, and other small transport vehicle owners. The scheme helps drivers meet vehicle maintenance, insurance, and fuel costs.

What is Vahana Mitra?

The AP government introduced Vahana Mitra to support the livelihood of auto-rickshaw and taxi drivers who form a significant part of the urban and semi-urban transport workforce. The annual financial assistance of ₹10,000 is credited directly to the driver's bank account via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

Who is Eligible?

1. Occupation: Must be an auto-rickshaw driver, taxi driver, or maxi-cab driver
2. Valid driving license: Must hold a valid driving license for the vehicle type
3. Vehicle ownership/operation: Must own or operate an auto-rickshaw, taxi, or similar small transport vehicle
4. Age: 18 years or above
5. Residency: Must be a resident of Andhra Pradesh
6. Income: Should belong to economically weaker sections (white ration card holders preferred)
7. Exclusions:
   • Government employees
   • Income tax payers
   • Owners of heavy transport vehicles (trucks, buses)

Documents Required

• Aadhaar card (see our Aadhaar guide)
• Valid driving license
• Vehicle registration certificate (RC) in the applicant's name
• Bank passbook (Aadhaar-linked)
• Ration card (white card preferred)
• Passport-size photographs
• Mobile number

Step-by-Step Application Process

Through Village/Ward Secretariat

1. Visit Ward/Village Secretariat: Go to your nearest Ward Secretariat (urban) or Village Secretariat (rural)
2. Meet the Transport Assistant: Approach the relevant assistant at the Secretariat
3. Submit application: Fill in the application form with personal, vehicle, and bank details
4. Provide documents: Submit copies of driving license, RC, Aadhaar, bank passbook, and ration card
5. Verification: The Secretariat staff verifies your documents and vehicle details
6. Approval: Applications are approved at the mandal/district level
7. DBT credit: ₹10,000 is credited to your bank account annually

Verification Process

• Transport department officials may verify that the applicant is actively operating the vehicle
• Physical verification at the Secretariat level
• Cross-checking with RTO records

Benefit Details

Processing Time

• Application to verification: 15–30 days
• Disbursement: Annual, usually disbursed on a date announced by the government

Important Tips

1. Keep license and RC updated: Expired driving license or vehicle registration will make you ineligible
2. Aadhaar-bank linking is mandatory: Without this, DBT cannot be processed
3. Apply through Secretariat only: Do not pay any agent — the application is free
4. One benefit per person: Even if you own multiple vehicles, you get ₹10,000 once per year
5. Renew annually: You may need to re-verify your eligibility each year

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How much money will I get under Vahana Mitra?

₹10,000 per year, credited directly to your bank account.

Q2: Can I apply if I drive someone else's auto?

The scheme primarily targets vehicle owner-drivers. If you are a hired driver without vehicle ownership, eligibility may vary — check with your local Secretariat.

Q3: Is this scheme for car taxi drivers too?

Yes, taxi drivers and maxi-cab drivers are also eligible, not just auto-rickshaw drivers.

Q4: When is the amount disbursed?

The disbursement date varies each year. The government announces the date — typically once a year.

Q5: Do I need a white ration card?

While white ration card holders are prioritized, check current eligibility criteria at your Secretariat as the rules may have been updated.

Q6: Can women auto drivers apply?

Yes, women who drive auto-rickshaws or taxis are equally eligible.

Q7: What if my application is rejected?

Visit your Ward/Village Secretariat to understand the rejection reason. Correct any document issues and reapply.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. CitizenNest is an independent platform and is not affiliated with the Government of Andhra Pradesh. Verify all details on official portals. Scheme terms may be revised.