Patna: The Bihar government has decided to make a training certificate from a recognised driving training institute mandatory for applicants seeking a Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) driving licence.
The decision was taken during a meeting of the Bihar Road Safety Council chaired by Transport Minister Damodar Rawat on Tuesday. To implement the new requirement, the state government will amend the Bihar Motor Vehicles Rules.
Officials said the move is aimed at ensuring that new drivers receive formal training in traffic regulations, road safety norms and responsible driving practices before being granted a licence.
Focus on reducing road accidents
The council reviewed several measures aimed at strengthening road safety across Bihar. Representatives from the Transport Department, Road Construction Department, Rural Works Department, Home Department, Health Department, Education Department and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) participated in the meeting.
The proposal to link LMV licence issuance with certified training is expected to improve driving standards and help reduce road accidents in the state.
41 driving training schools already operational
According to the Transport Department, Bihar currently has 41 registered driving training schools where certified instructors provide training based on modern driving standards.
The government has approved a total of 66 Motor Vehicle Driving Training Institutes across the state. While 41 centres are already operational, construction of the remaining 25 institutes is underway.
Officials said the expansion of training infrastructure will support the implementation of the proposed licensing reforms.
Annual road safety training calendar prepared
The government has also prepared an annual road safety training calendar covering all districts of Bihar.
In addition, a standard Road Safety Guideline has been developed and circulated among district administrations. The guideline is being used to conduct regular road safety training programmes for both government and private vehicle drivers.
The initiative is intended to increase awareness of traffic rules, safe driving techniques and responsible road behaviour.
‘Trained drivers are the strongest pillar of road safety’
Transport Minister Damodar Rawat said the Bihar government remains committed to reducing road accidents and building a safer transport system.
“Trained drivers are the strongest pillar of road safety. Making certification from recognised driving training institutes mandatory for LMV licences will be an important step towards reducing accidents,” he said.
The minister directed all departments concerned to strengthen coordination and ensure that road safety campaigns and training programmes reach the grassroots level.
Training-based model to strengthen road safety
Transport Secretary Raj Kumar said the department is placing special emphasis on a training-based approach to road safety.
He said annual training schedules and district-level road safety guidelines have already been prepared to help educate drivers on traffic laws, safe driving methods and responsible road use.
“Trained drivers not only protect themselves but also contribute to the safety of other road users,” Raj Kumar said.
He added that the department would continue expanding awareness campaigns, training initiatives and capacity-building programmes to promote a safer and more disciplined traffic culture across Bihar.
