Jaipur, 14 October 2026: Recognising the people who keep India’s supply chains moving, News18 Network and Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles hosted an event under the Desh Ke Super Saarthi campaign in Jaipur, bringing together over 225 guests. The event focused on truck drivers’ contribution to the economy, with discussions on road safety, professional training and the infrastructure needed to improve their working conditions.
A key highlight was the felicitation of 21 truck drivers across the Safety Saarthi, Long Service Award and FE Saarthi categories. Each honouree received a cash prize and a certificate recognising them as a Desh Ke Super Saarthi. The awards celebrated safe driving, years of service and the skills required to improve fuel efficiency and transport performance.
After a successful event in Jaipur, the campaign will culminate in a national conclave in Delhi on 16 October 2026, with Ajay Tamta, Hon’ble Minister of State for Road Transport & Highways, Government of India, as Chief Guest. The conclave will bring together industry leaders and speakers to discuss the future of India’s road transport ecosystem, driver welfare and the recognition of Saarthis.
Transport Commissioner highlights training and infrastructure
Purushottam Sharma, Transport Commissioner, Rajasthan, who attended as Chief Guest, highlighted the importance of truck drivers to the economy and the challenges surrounding professional driver training and facilities for heavy-vehicle drivers.
“The country’s economy cannot function without transport, and transport cannot function without drivers,” Sharma said.
He called attention to the need to strengthen the standards and availability of heavy-vehicle driving schools. He also highlighted the limited availability of suitable places for drivers to park, rest and eat during long journeys, noting the importance of better rest facilities alongside driver training in addressing road-safety challenges.
Discussions address driver safety and working conditions
Deepak Gautam, Zonal Manager – North, Tata Motors Ltd., spoke about the contribution of truck drivers and the need to address their welfare. A fireside discussion explored how driver training, vehicle-performance monitoring and driving practices influence fuel efficiency and fleet operations. It also covered the Institute of Driving Training and Research in Ajmer and the potential of relay models to reduce the time drivers spend away from their families.
The panel discussion, The Highway Heroes: Safety, Sustainability & Dignity on the Road, featured Ramavtar Mor, Arpit Patni, Ashok Patni, Anil Dhinwa and Deepak Gautam. The discussion covered driver rest facilities, conditions in mining operations, training, vehicle servicing and the responsibilities of stakeholders across the transport sector.
Eye-care initiative reaches over 175 truckers
As part of the campaign’s focus on driver wellbeing, free eye check-ups were organised throughout the day at Mahesh Transport, Kotputli, Rajasthan 303108, for Saarthis and their spouses. More than 175 truckers received free eye check-ups, with spectacles provided to those who needed them. The initiative brought a practical health intervention alongside the campaign’s wider focus on road safety and driver welfare.
