From Parliament to Highways: Promoting Gender-Inclusive EV Freight

India’s trucking industry is poised for rapid growth, offering a chance to transition to zero emission trucks (ZETs) while creating millions of jobs. Experts emphasise that this transformation could also address gender disparities in the workforce, as more women step into roles across the clean mobility value chain.

Women Driving Change in India’s Electric Freight Sector

A recent study projects that India’s trucking sector could generate around 30 million jobs by 2050, with ZETs representing over 21 per cent of these roles. Saudamini Zutshi, Manager – Partnerships and Business Development at Purpose, noted, “Women’s participation in India’s EV workforce has reached 11 to 15 per cent. This is an early signal that change has begun.”

Uma Bhattacharya, Trustee of the Swaniti Initiative, stressed the need for supportive policies. She said, “Deliberate policy choices, shaped by the perspectives of those participating in the new green economy, are critical for a gender-balanced transition.”

At a recent meet, MPs Dr. Fauzia Khan, Dr. Sangeeta Balwant, Adv. Priya Saroj, and Smt. Mahima Kumari Mewar joined women truck drivers and fleet operators to discuss these opportunities and challenges.

Overcoming Barriers and Empowering Women Drivers

While progress is evident, obstacles remain. Reema Jogani, CEO and Founder of Reema Logistics, shared insights on infrastructure challenges. She said, “There is a need for improved infrastructure, including CCTV and parking facilities. Women drivers prefer to operate on local routes, as this allows them to better manage their care responsibilities.”

Pilot Ummatunbibi Jahangir Shaikh added, “Driving an electric vehicle improved my earnings, but more importantly, I feel respected. I am able to share my experiences with other women who wish to participate in this space.”

Hon’ble MPs highlighted the dual goals of gender inclusion and sustainability. Dr. Fauzia Khan said, “Electric vehicles present us with a rare opportunity to reimagine the way we do things. Collaboration across society, government, and industry is essential to ensure infrastructure and policies are shaped through a gender lens.”

Dr. Sangeeta Balwant noted, “Driving a truck is no small feat. Yet these women are proving they can rise to the challenge and drive transformational change.” Adv. Priya Saroj added that while policies exist, implementation at the ground level remains critical.

Building a Gender-Inclusive EV Ecosystem

Creating a safe, accessible, and inclusive environment requires societal support and visibility of women in the EV space. Hon’ble Smt. Mahima Kumari Mewar and fellow MPs felicitated participants and promised to foster an enabling ecosystem for women in clean transport.

The dialogue highlighted that India’s transition to clean freight is not just about technology. It is about people. Ensuring meaningful participation of women from the outset will be key to building a sustainable and inclusive freight future.