The Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC) and Michelin India just wrapped up convocation ceremonies for Project Vahaan and Project EV Shiksha in Pune – a major win for India’s evolving automotive and mobility sector.
These programs tackle a real skills gap, India’s booming demand for safe drivers, road-savvy citizens, and EV-ready technicians, especially as electric mobility accelerates. For youth from low-income families, formal training often feels out of reach but Michelin India stepped up with targeted skilling for Pune’s economically weaker sections.
Project Vahaan trained 35 candidates to become safe, employable drivers through Level 4 certification for Light and Heavy Motor Vehicles. The hands-on program covered traffic rules, defensive driving, road safety, and essential soft skills.
Project EV Shiksha equipped 30 aspiring technicians with future-proof EV skills via Level 4 Electric Vehicle Service Technician training. They mastered high-voltage safety, fire protocols, routine maintenance, minor repairs, diagnostics, safe component handling, and workplace readiness.
The EV Shiksha ceremony took place at MIT Art, Design and Technology University, while Vahaan’s event was held at MIDC, Kasarwadi, Chinchwad. Both featured industry leaders, certificate presentations, and real stories from graduates showing the direct path from training to jobs.
These initiatives prove industry-led skilling creates livelihoods, boosts road safety, and powers India’s sustainable mobility transition.
Leadership Comments
Shantanu Deshpande, Managing Director, Michelin India said, “At Michelin India, we believe the future of mobility will be shaped not only by technology but also by people equipped with the right skills. Through initiatives like Project Vahaan and EV Shiksha, in partnership with ASDC, we are committed to strengthening skill development for young talent and preparing them for the evolving mobility ecosystem. By enabling access to this structured training, we aim to strengthen road safety through better tyre care and maintenance, support the transition to electric mobility, and create meaningful livelihood opportunities.”
Addressing the occasion, Vinkesh Gulati, Chairperson, ASDC said, “These initiatives demonstrate how industry-aligned skilling can deliver outcomes beyond training numbers. By integrating safety, employability, and future mobility skills, we are preparing a skilled workforce capable of supporting the future of India’s automotive and mobility ecosystem. Through this approach, we are enabling youth to build dignified careers while also contributing to safer roads and a greener, more sustainable mobility landscape.”
Arindam Lahiri, CEO, ASDC added, “Through Project Vahaan and EV Shiksha, ASDC continues to focus on impact-driven skilling. The combination of certified training, industry relevance, and inclusion ensures long-term value for both learners and the mobility sector.”
