UditVani, Jamshedpur : In a major push towards road safety and skill development, the Jharkhand government has approved the establishment of a Tier-1 Institute of Driving Training and Research (IDTR) at Manfita mouza of Jamshedpur, to be operated under the supervision of Tata Motors.
The state cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Hemant Soren on Thursday, granted administrative approval for the project’s Detailed Project Report (DPR) with an estimated cost of Rs 22.03 crore.
Major Share from Centre
Nearly 77 per cent of the project cost will be funded by the Union government as a grant under its road safety and skill development initiatives through the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.
Tata Motors to Lead Operations
Tata Motors will contribute Rs 1.82 crore towards the project and will be responsible for the operation and maintenance of the institute.
The company will design training modules using its expert instructors, modern vehicles and advanced training technologies.
State Government’s Role
The Jharkhand government will provide around 12 acres of land for the institute and invest Rs 3.21 crore towards infrastructure development, including construction work and basic facilities such as electricity and water supply.
Budget Break-up of IDTR Tier-1 Project
Government of India: Rs 17 crore (grant under MoRTH scheme)
Tata Motors Limited: Rs 1.82 crore (CSR and technical partnership)
Jharkhand Government: Rs 3.21 crore (land and infrastructure support)
Total Estimated Cost: Rs 22.03 crore
Modern and Scientific Driver Training
The Institute of Driving Training and Research (IDTR) will function as a model centre where drivers will be trained using scientific and technology-driven methods.
The institute will feature high-end driving simulators capable of recreating challenging situations such as rain, fog and night driving, enabling trainees to gain realistic driving experience in a safe environment.
Apart from basic driving skills, the centre will also focus on defensive driving techniques, fuel-efficient driving practices and advanced road safety training. Dedicated fleets of light and heavy vehicles will be available for practical training.
Courses for Commercial Drivers
The institute will offer induction courses, refresher programmes and specialised training for drivers transporting hazardous materials.
Candidates who successfully complete training and receive the Form-5B certificate may be exempted from appearing for the driving test at the Regional Transport Office (RTO).
PPP Model and Inclusive Training
The project will operate on a public-private partnership (PPP) model, where the state provides land, the Centre provides financial assistance and the private automobile partner manages operations.
Under the Memorandum of Understanding signed between the Jharkhand government and Tata Motors, special emphasis will also be placed on training women drivers, particularly those operating pink autos.
The institute is expected to train more than 3,000 drivers annually.
Meeting Industrial Demand
The project holds particular significance for the Kolhan region, an industrial and mining hub where the demand for skilled heavy vehicle drivers remains consistently high.
Once operational, the institute is expected to play a key role in enhancing road safety standards while creating a pool of professionally trained drivers for the region.
Project at a Glance
* Project: Institute of Driving Training and Research (Tier-1)
Location: Manfita Mouza, Jamshedpur
* Estimated Cost: Rs 22.03 crore
* Operator: Tata Motors
