Apna Ghar Initiative – A Welfare Scheme for Truck Drivers

Syllabus: Governance, Welfare Schemes, Government Policies & Interventions (GS II, Prelims)
Source: DD News

Context:

The Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas has launched the ‘Apna Ghar’ initiative to provide dedicated rest facilities for truck drivers across highways in India.

About the Initiative:

• Nodal Ministry: Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas
• Launched In: 2025
• Implementing Agencies: Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) at fuel retail outlets on national and state highways
• Objective:
  • Enhance road safety by reducing driver fatigue
  • Improve hygiene, health, and dignity for truck drivers
  • Promote inclusive infrastructure and social welfare in the transport and logistics sector

Key Features:

• Facilities Created:
  • 368 rest houses with 4,611 beds
  • Dormitories (10–30 beds), clean toilets, bathing facilities, dining zones, and restaurants/dhabas
  • Access to clean drinking water
• Technology Integration:
  • ‘Apna Ghar’ mobile application for booking, driver feedback, and service updates
• Design and Implementation:
  • Developed at fuel stations, based on user feedback and app-based analytics
  • Public-private model via OMCs

Significance:

• Supports dignified working conditions for informal sector workers
• Promotes occupational health and road safety
• Contributes to SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) and resilient supply chains