India rolls out internationally recognised truck driver training programmes | IRU

The Logistics Sector Skill Council (LSC) is equipping current and aspiring Indian truck drivers with the latest internationally recognised training standards.

Following the completion of initial IRU RoadMasters capacity-building activities and the implementation of the IRU Academy Driver Goods Transport Training and Assessment Programme, LSC now boasts a host of trainers who are providing the latest internationally recognised driver training programmes to Indian truck drivers.

LSC, a not-for-profit organisation that offers training programmes to India’s logistics sector, aims to reduce gaps in the knowledge and skills of Indian truck drivers, aligning them with global standards.

LSC CEO Ravikanth Yamarthy said, “Our mission is to bridge the gap in knowledge and skills among Indian truck drivers. By equipping both men and women truck drivers with internationally recognised standards, we are not only enhancing their professional abilities, but also helping to address the global shortage of drivers. Our efforts align with the urgent need to secure vital goods transport and logistics services worldwide.”

IRU Director of Certification and Standards Patrick Philipp said, “Elevating the skill levels of truck drivers serves a dual purpose: further professionalising the trucking industry in India and all the benefits that come with it, such as increased road safety, while more broadly helping with the global shortage of drivers.”

Solutions to tackle the chronic shortage of truck drivers prioritise attracting more local young people and women to the profession. However, given the extent of driver shortages and an ageing population in many countries, the local talent pool is not always enough to cover the gap. IRU is helping establish high-level international driver qualification standards to facilitate driver mobility and employment.

IRU’s latest driver shortage report found that over three million truck driver positions are currently unfilled in just 36 countries, an already grim figure which is projected to double by 2028 if no significant action is taken.