ASTC launches ‘Rhino Food Xpress’ to promote entrepreneurship and alternative business opportunities

Syllad | The Rising MeghalayaNovember 29, 2024

Guwahati, Nov 29: The Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) has unveiled an innovative programme, “Rhino Food Xpress,” to transform non-operational buses into dynamic business ventures such as food trucks, pharmacies, private offices, and more.

The initiative, launched at the Inter-State Bus Terminal (ISBT), Betkuchi, aims to foster entrepreneurship, support creative business models, and generate additional revenue streams for ASTC.

The programme was inaugurated by ASTC chairman Pallab Lochan Das in the presence of managing director Chinmoy Prakash Phookan, vice chairman Pranab Jyoti Lahkar, and other dignitaries.

Around 60 commercially non-viable buses from various districts will be leased to entrepreneurs for five years. Entrepreneurs will pay a monthly rental to ASTC, creating a win-win model for business owners and the corporation. The programme encourages entrepreneurs to transform these buses into food trucks, pharmacies, private workspaces, and other innovative business setups.

The buses will feature ASTC’s Rhino logo, symbolizing strength and resilience.

Speaking at the event, ASTC managing director Chinmoy Prakash Phookan emphasized the dual objective of creating new income opportunities and revitalizing ASTC’s revenue streams. The programme is a part of ASTC’s broader vision of promoting sustainable development while nurturing entrepreneurial talent in Assam.

The first entrepreneur to benefit from this initiative, Juritora Saikia, who also manages a skill development institute, was recognized during the launch event. Her participation showcases the program’s potential to inspire more individuals to bring innovative ideas to life.

In his address, ASTC chairman Pallab Lochan Das expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma and Transport Minister Kesab Mahanta for their unwavering support in enabling transformative projects like this. He also urged stakeholders to spread awareness about Rhino Food Xpress to ensure broad participation.

Das highlighted ASTC’s ongoing efforts to introduce electric buses to mitigate pollution and improve transportation services, reiterating the organization’s dedication to restoring its prominence in Assam’s transport sector.

The event was attended by notable personalities, including

Pradip Kumar Das, chairman, Inland Water Regulatory Authority; senior ASTC officials and staff, entrepreneurs, department representatives, and dignitaries.

The Rhino Food Xpress initiative reflects ASTC’s innovative approach to turning challenges into opportunities, fostering entrepreneurship, and driving economic development. By repurposing idle resources, ASTC not only promotes sustainability but also opens doors for creative business solutions, contributing to Assam’s economic and social growth.

This groundbreaking initiative promises to inspire a wave of innovative ventures and set a benchmark for public sector ingenuity across India.