News18 Network and Tata Motors Commercial Vehicles honoured 21 truck drivers in Jaipur on October 14, under their ‘Desh Ke Super Saarthi’ campaign. The event brought together more than 225 guests and focused on truck drivers’ contribution to the economy, road safety, professional training and better working conditions.

The 21 drivers were honoured in three categories: Safety Saarthi, Long Service Award and FE Saarthi. Each award winner received a cash prize and a certificate recognising their contribution to the transport sector.

The awards recognised safe driving, long service and skills that help improve fuel efficiency and transport performance.

According to a News18 Network press release from Jaipur, the campaign will culminate in a national conclave in Delhi on October 16. Ajay Tamta, Minister of State for Road Transport and Highways, is scheduled to attend as the chief guest.

The conclave will bring together industry representatives to discuss road transport, driver welfare and the recognition of truck drivers.

Purushottam Sharma, Transport Commissioner of Rajasthan, attended yesterday’s Jaipur event as the chief guest. He highlighted the importance of truck drivers to the economy and the need to improve professional training facilities for heavy-vehicle drivers.

“The country’s economy cannot function without transport, and transport cannot function without drivers,” Sharma said.

Deepak Gautam, Zonal Manager – North at Tata Motors Ltd., spoke about truck drivers’ contribution and the importance of their welfare. A fireside discussion explored how driver training, vehicle performance monitoring and driving practices can affect fuel efficiency and fleet operations.

Participants also discussed 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.

A panel discussion titled ‘The Highway Heroes: Safety, Sustainability and Dignity on the Road’ featured Ramavtar Mor, Arpit Patni, Ashok Patni, Anil Dhinwa and Deepak Gautam.

The discussion covered driver rest facilities, working conditions in mining operations, professional training, vehicle servicing and the responsibilities of stakeholders across the transport sector.

As part of the campaign’s driver welfare initiatives, free eye check-ups were organised throughout the day at Mahesh Transport in Kotputli, Rajasthan, for truck drivers and their spouses.