Chandigarh : In a major initiative to strengthen road safety, develop skilled drivers, and create employment opportunities, the Haryana Government will establish a state-of-the-art Institute of Driving Training and Research (IDTR) at Shahpur village in Ambala district, Transport Minister Anil Vij announced on Tuesday.
The announcement came after the Haryana Transport Department signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ashok Leyland Limited, one of India’s leading commercial vehicle manufacturers, for the development of the institute.
13-Acre Facility to Train Thousands of Drivers Annually
According to Anil Vij, the institute will be developed over 13 acres with the joint support of the Haryana Government and Ashok Leyland, the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM). The institute will provide scientific, professional, and industry-oriented training for both Heavy Motor Vehicle (HMV) and Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) drivers.
The minister said the facility is designed to enhance road safety while preparing a skilled workforce to meet the growing demands of the transport sector.
Training for New and Experienced Drivers
The IDTR will offer Fresher Training Courses for aspiring HMV and LMV drivers, enabling them to acquire quality training before obtaining their driving licences.
In addition, the institute will conduct Refresher Courses, Licence Renewal Training, and Orientation Programmes for licensed drivers to regularly upgrade their driving skills and knowledge.
Specialised training will also be provided for drivers transporting goods carriages and hazardous materials, covering road safety standards, emergency response, specialised driving techniques, and legal compliance.
Focus on Road Safety and International Standards
Anil Vij said the institute has been conceived to support the Haryana Government’s vision of improving road safety by developing skilled and responsible drivers in line with international standards.
“Well-trained and responsible drivers are the foundation of a safe transportation system,” the minister said, adding that the institute would promote disciplined driving, adherence to traffic regulations, and greater awareness of road safety to help reduce road accidents.
Modern Infrastructure and Advanced Training Facilities
The institute will be equipped with world-class infrastructure, including:
- Digital air-conditioned classrooms
- Advanced driving simulators
- Live engine and transmission demonstration facilities
- Cut-section model room
- Medical room
- Library
- Cafeteria
- Yoga room
- Hostel accommodation for trainees from outside the state
The facility is expected to train around 2,000 new drivers annually, while nearly 20,000 licensed drivers will receive refresher training every year.
Advanced Practical Driving Tracks
The IDTR will feature modern practical training tracks designed to simulate real-world driving conditions. These will include 8-Bend, S-Bend, Hairpin Bend, Hump Area, Reverse Parking, H-Bend, and V-Bend tracks, enabling trainees to gain hands-on experience in handling challenging road situations safely and efficiently.
Employment Opportunities for Youth
The Transport Minister said the institute would create significant employment opportunities, particularly for young people and economically weaker sections. By equipping trainees with professional driving skills, the centre will improve employability while supporting the transport industry’s growing demand for qualified drivers.
Regional Centre for Driver Training
Anil Vij said the institute would benefit not only Ambala, but also neighbouring districts including Yamunanagar, Panchkula, Kurukshetra, and Jind, making Ambala a major hub for advanced driver training in Haryana.
He added that the institute aims to produce not just skilled drivers, but responsible professionals capable of meeting the evolving needs of the modern transport sector while contributing to safer roads across the state.
The minister said the establishment of the Institute of Driving Training and Research (IDTR) marks a significant step towards strengthening Haryana’s transport ecosystem through skill development, enhanced road safety, and sustainable employment generation.
