BHUBANESWAR: The State Transport Authority (STA) of Odisha, in collaboration with Palladium as the project management unit, has successfully trained thousands of individuals under its Heavy Motor Vehicle (HMV) driver training program, an official release said on Tuesday. Designed to bridge the skill gap and create sustainable job opportunities, this initiative has transformed the lives of many, including individuals from tribal communities, it said.
Since its inception, the program has trained 7,738 new drivers and 29,656 refresher drivers, with 2,035 individuals securing stable employment. The initiative’s remarkable success highlights the power of skill development and strategic partnerships in driving social and economic progress, it said.
One such success story is that of Sudam Charan Das, a tribal man from Deogarh, Odisha, who previously struggled to make ends meet as an auto-rickshaw driver. Supporting a family of six on an unstable income, Sudam’s life changed when he enrolled in the HMV driver training program. The program, which provides free training, accommodation, and a stipend, equipped him with essential driving skills, road safety awareness, vehicle maintenance knowledge, and financial literacy.
“I had never imagined I could drive a big truck. But when I heard about the training, I knew I had to give it a shot,” said Sudam. Beyond learning to operate heavy vehicles, the program instilled discipline and self-improvement, leading him to quit tobacco and embrace a healthier lifestyle.
Today, Sudam earns a stable income of ₹35,000 per month, transporting goods across India. His financial security has enabled him to enroll his children in better schools and contribute significantly to his household. Inspired by his own transformation, he has encouraged over 200 others from his tribal community to join the program, proving that access to the right opportunities can create a ripple effect of positive change.
Amit Patjoshi, CEO of Palladium India, emphasizes the organization’s commitment to inclusive growth and says, “At Palladium, we believe that true impact comes from empowering communities with the right skills and opportunities. This initiative is not just about training drivers—it’s about transforming lives, particularly in underserved tribal areas. As the PMU, Palladium has played a crucial role in scaling this initiative. Our expertise in workforce development, skills training, and economic inclusion ensures that such programs don’t just train individuals—they create sustainable change.”
The transport sector isn’t just about moving goods and people—it’s about moving lives forward. And for thousands of tribals, this road to opportunity is just getting started. More than just a skilling program, this initiative is about economic empowerment. It gives individuals like Sudam a real chance to earn a dignified living, support their families, and inspire their communities. The structured training ensures they become responsible, safety-conscious drivers, contributing to a more professionalized transport sector. With ongoing efforts to expand skilling programs, Odisha is setting an example for the rest of the country, it added.
