Does School Bus Drivers are also applicable to include in Motor Transport Worker Act, 1961

Dear HR Professionals,

I am the HR professional who recently joined a school in Hyderabad that operates more than 100 buses. I would like to inquire whether the Motor Transport Workers Act is applicable to school drivers.

Thank you for your assistance.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Dear Mithra,

As per Sec. 2(g) of the Motor Transport Workers Act, 1961, a Motor Transport Undertaking means a motor transport undertaking engaged in carrying passengers or goods or both by road for hire or reward and includes a private carrier. Therefore, any educational institution providing transport facility to its employees or students by running motor vehicles and collecting charges for such service would fall within the purview of the MTW Act, 1961. However, the State Government is empowered to grant exemption under Section 38(2) of the Act. Better check with your State Labor Department.