The impact of Covid-19 on the Indian economy and particularly the unorganized/informal sector has been devastating. In Delhi, one of the groups adversely impacted by the multiple lockdowns is the Auto-rickshaw drivers. Subsequent lockdowns have led to a loss of livelihoods and economic uncertainty for this demographic, despite state intervention.

Another development during the lockdown is a significant shift in consumer behaviour, where people now prefer to e-hail an Auto using an Uber/Ola/Rapido App and have the Auto come to their doorstep to pick them up (rather than hailing an Auto on the street). The problem is that many of the Auto drivers are above the age of 50 and do not own smartphones/are not comfortable with technology.

This project’s objective is to raise funds to buy 15 Android smartphones with accessories for Auto drivers and then train 15 selected Auto drivers on how to use rideshare apps like Uber/Ola/Rapido. The funds raised will be used to:

• Provide them with free Android smartphones and train them on how to use the devices.
• Introduce them to Uber/Ola/Rapido and help them create a driver account.
• Educate them on the usage of the rideshare apps and best practices when driving on the platform.
• Educate them on how to use the In-App support feature to get help, how to access their earnings data and understand their payment statements.

This project is a part of my “DataDilemmas” project wherein I explore the importance of data mining and analytics in our day to day lives and demonstrate how technology inclusion can improve the livelihoods of underprivileged individuals and also have a positive impact on enhancing their social connections within society.

Funds Utilization:-

15 smartphones (1 smart phone+ accessories= 10,000 INR)

Arjun Vaish
Class 11 Student @ The Shriram School, Moulsari