UberFAUJI that was introduced in India to provide entrepreneurial opportunities to ex-servicemen is making a positive difference in the lives of hundreds of former Indian Army personnel who still have many productive years left post their retirement By Sudipta Dev
Uber India launched UberFAUJI in 2015 with the aim of providing an opportunity to talented and skilled ex-servicemen who can be gainfully engaged during their productive post-retirement years. The initiative makes a positive difference to the lives of former Indian soldiers. “Through this programme, we have been able to create and expand economic opportunities to numerous ex-servicemen and women who were transitioning from army to civilian lives, looking for flexible and dignified entrepreneurial opportunities,” says Shweta Rajpal Kohli, head of public policy, Uber India, pointing out that the service tenure of most end at an average age of 35 years – significantly earlier than most jobs in the world.
Every year, over 60,000 ex-servicemen and women falling under the age group of 35-40 years retire or complete their term of service with the Indian Army. “After years of living the army life, transitioning to civilian life post retirement can be challenging. In the last two years of being in India, we already have hundreds of ex-servicemen who are driving on the Uber platform and serving the citizens of their cities,” mentions Kohli, adding that UberFAUJI is an extension of a successful programme earlier rolled-out in the US market – UberMILITARY.
Uber India has partnered with the Army Welfare Placement Organization (AWPO) and the key department of ex servicemen under the Ministry of Defence to provide them entrepreneurial opportunities. “Through UberSHAAN as well, we have enabled ex-servicemen get onboard the Uber platform,” she says. During the recruitment process only, those with valid documentation are made driver partners, after a comprehensive background check and a mandatory soft skill training.
“In our experience, our ex-servicemen are undoubtedly amongst the country’s most talented, skilled, hardworking people. We are proud and honored to be able to partner with such incredible individuals, who contribute to making Uber a service of choice for people across India,” affirms Kohli. They have the flexibility to opt for part-time work while they look for a job, to a full-time opportunity. They are also assisted in getting financing for their vehicles, at lower than market rates. The ex-servicemen can begin with a single car and end up owning/ managing a fleet. “They are free to either drive themselves or manage a fleet of hired drivers on our platform which then gives them the liberty to plan their future income accordingly with flexible working hours,” states Kohli.
A pan-India initiative, ex-servicemen can partner Uber across the 29 Indian cities the company operates in. “We believe our technology platform has the potential to empower these ex-servicemen and women. It helps them find flexible economic opportunities at a time when they need it the most,” remarks Kohli.