Andhra Pradesh Launches Driver-Cum-Guide Training Program with Rapido in Vijayawada

The Andhra Pradesh Tourism Department has partnered with ride-hailing platform Rapido to launch India's first Driver-cum-Guide Training Programme in Vijayawada. Starting February 24, the two-day pilot trains taxi and auto drivers in destination knowledge, storytelling, safety protocols, and use of translation apps like Bhashini and Google Translate. The initiative aims to enhance tourist experiences by transforming drivers into cultural ambassadors. Certified drivers will be identifiable via a dedicated 'Tourist Guide' icon in the Rapido app. The project aligns with the Union Tourism Ministry's Swadesh Darshan scheme and may expand beyond Vijayawada.