Michelin and ASDC advance mobility skilling with Project Vahaan and EV Shiksha

Michelin, in partnership with the Automotive Skills Development Council (ASDC), has concluded the convocation ceremonies for Project Vahaan and Project EV Shiksha in Pune, marking a key milestone in industry-led skill development for India’s evolving mobility sector.

The initiatives aim to address the growing demand for skilled drivers and electric vehicle technicians while improving employability and promoting safer and more sustainable mobility. Together, the programmes trained 65 candidates from economically weaker sections, equipping them with industry-relevant skills and certification.

Project Vahaan focused on developing safe and responsible drivers through Level 4 certification training for Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) and Heavy Motor Vehicle (HMV) drivers. A total of 35 candidates underwent a mix of classroom sessions and practical training covering traffic regulations, defensive driving techniques, road safety practices and soft skills.

Project EV Shiksha, meanwhile, was designed to build technical capabilities aligned with the expanding electric vehicle ecosystem. Under the Electric Vehicle Service Technician Level 4 programme, 30 candidates received training in areas such as high-voltage safety, fire safety, EV maintenance, minor repairs, basic diagnostics and safe handling of EV components.

The EV Shiksha convocation was held at MIT Art, Design and Technology University, while the ceremony for Project Vahaan took place at MIDC, Kasarwadi in Chinchwad. The events were attended by representatives from ASDC, Michelin India, training partners and programme participants.

Mr. Shantanu Deshpande, Managing Director of Michelin India, said the company believes the future of mobility will be shaped not only by technology but also by skilled people. He noted that initiatives such as Project Vahaan and EV Shiksha aim to strengthen road safety, support the transition to electric mobility and create meaningful livelihood opportunities for young people.

Mr. Vinkesh Gulati, Chairperson of ASDC, said the programmes demonstrate how industry-aligned skilling can deliver outcomes beyond training numbers by integrating safety, employability and future mobility skills.

Mr. Arindam Lahiri, CEO of ASDC, added that the initiatives reflect the council’s focus on impact-driven skill development, combining certified training, industry relevance and inclusion to create long-term value for both learners and the mobility sector.

Through these initiatives, Michelin and ASDC aim to contribute to workforce readiness, improved road safety awareness and the development of a skilled talent pool to support India’s transition toward greener and more advanced mobility solutions.