Ola launches ‘Auto Unnati’, benefit program for Auto driver partners

Bengaluru-based cab aggregator Ola has launched a comprehensive benefit program for its Auto driver partners called Auto Unnati. As a part of this initiative, Ola Auto partners will benefit from Ola’s ‘Chalo Befikar’ insurance program, family welfare initiatives, and performance-based financial benefits.

Built out of local insights gathered over time, ‘Auto Unnati’ is Ola claims that this is the first such program that aims to create a robust financial cover and business benefit assurance plan that enables a healthy professional ecosystem for Auto driver partners.

‘Auto Unnati’ is further strengthened by a tailor-made performance-based financial benefit program that guarantees earnings of Rs 40,000 to all auto drivers. This program has been launched exclusively for Ola Auto driver partners in Bengaluru. As per Ola, the idea is to inspire the Auto drivers to focus more on customer service and increase their earning potential.

Speaking on the launch of Auto Unnati, Siddharth Agrawal, Senior Director and Head Auto category at Ola said, “Ola has consistently co-created multiple avenues to foster entrepreneurship in the driver partner ecosystem. Our aim is to create an inclusive environment in which driver partners can operate and thrive. ‘Auto Unnati’ is a milestone program in the same direction that will offer better financial and emotional stability for thousands of auto drivers in Bengaluru. He added, “With the assurance of financial benefits and free insurance cover, Auto Unnati will elevate Auto Drivers’ overall wellbeing and that of their families.”

Ola’s in-trip insurance program ‘Chalo Befikar’ for auto driver partners is an industry-first initiative that provides a cover of Rs 500,000 at zero-cost for every Ola Auto driver partner. It entails daily benefits in case of hospitalisation to cover business losses, takes care of outstanding auto loans, and children’s education.

In addition, the program covers outstanding vehicle loan obligation of driver partners, irrespective of the loan amount, children’s education fee (up to Rs 24,000 per year) per child till class 10. This is over and above the cover of Rs 500,000 and business loss reimbursement of up to Rs 750 per day for 3 months, in case of temporary disability

Starting in Bengaluru, ‘Chalo Befikar’ will be rolled out in a phased manner to different cities in the coming months.

Ola launched the Auto in Bengaluru in 2014. Over the years, Ola has brought in features such as Wi-Fi to the auto platform and has been working to revamp the experience for the customers as well as drivers partners.