#Japan #Izumi #NAVIS HR #Marui Transport #Indian Drivers

Japan's Logistics News: A Historical Hiring Initiative

In a groundbreaking announcement, NAVIS Human Resource Private Limited, headquartered in Bangalore, India, has successfully hired two truck drivers from Odisha, India, to work in Japan under the Technical Skill system, set to commence in June 2025. This marks the first instance in history where Indian nationals residing overseas have been officially employed as truck drivers in Japan’s logistics sector. This innovative model offers a promising solution to the pressing manpower challenges faced by the Japanese logistics industry.

The Indian Embassy in Japan took the initiative to visit NAVIS HR India, where they extended their encouragement to the newly hired drivers, showcasing the importance of this initiative.

A New Workforce Supporting Japanese Logistics

These Indian drivers possess a unique advantage: they are skilled in right-hand driving, have high proficiency in English, and represent youthful energy in a sector that is often challenged by an aging workforce. Through rigorous training in Japanese language and cultural understanding, along with hands-on technical training, these drivers are now ready to navigate Japanese roads. Their journey can be seen in a video showcasing their hard work and potential as global talents in the logistics field.

Understanding Odisha

Odisha is a significant industrial state located in eastern India, with a population of approximately 41 million. The state capital, Bhubaneswar, has gained recognition for its Smart City initiatives and boasts a robust infrastructure, high educational standards, and effective transportation safety policies. The majestic silhouette of the Lingaraj Temple, surrounded by the sunset, embodies the rich cultural heritage of this region.

The Hiring Process: Trust and Reliability

The two Indian drivers were trained at a nationally accredited Heavy Motor Vehicle (HMV) training facility, established through a partnership between the Odisha government and Ashok Leyland. They have completed advanced training in operating large vehicles and safety protocols. Moreover, they successfully passed the Technical Skill assessment tests and cultural training offered by NAVIS HR, despite having never stayed in Japan. Their proficiency in Japanese, professionalism, and strong awareness of safe driving make them immediate assets for any employer.

The HMV training center spans an impressive 40 acres, equivalent to approximately 3.5 Tokyo Domes, ensuring that the training environment is both practical and comprehensive for aspiring professional drivers.

Training includes rigorous vehicle inspection sessions, where drivers learn the structure of large vehicles closely to establish the foundation of safe driving, as well as simulator sessions to refine their skills and decision-making abilities in realistic environments.

Odisha's Commitment to Safety

In Odisha, the government has initiated Project SuVahak, which has successfully trained 4,488 new drivers and 21,964 refresher course participants. The initiative emphasizes zero-accident objectives, promoting road safety education and technical assistance at a national level. In partnership with the Odisha State Skill Development Authority and the Department of Commerce and Transport, NAVIS HR is set to facilitate the training of 130 drivers heading to Japan by July 2024.

This endeavor marks a significant advancement in creating job opportunities for skilled drivers within Odisha, contributing to local economic growth.

Rigorous Selection and Training Protocols at NAVIS HR

At NAVIS HR, mere desire to work in Japan does not guarantee selection. They have set a rigorous and multifaceted selection and training system to cultivate “trustworthy human resources” for Japanese society. This includes:
- Japanese Language Acquisition: Evaluating speed of learning, pronunciation, reading comprehension, etc., through a proprietary assessment.
- Character and Integrity: Conducting interviews, behavioral observations, and family background checks to assess responsibility and teamwork skills.
- Cultural Adaptability: Examining the candidates’ adaptability to Japan’s communication style, time management, etiquette, and teamwork.

In addition to this, Japanese instructors provide comprehensive language and cultural education, preparation for technical skill examinations, and overall support for lifestyle and mental health to develop individuals who are not just knowledgeable, but truly reliable.

Why Indian Drivers are Ideal for Japan

1. Right-Hand Drive Proficiency: India's left-side driving and right-hand drive culture facilitate a smoother transition for Indian drivers in Japan.
2. High English Proficiency: English being one of India’s official languages aids in utilities like understanding work instructions and safety manuals quickly.
3. Low Alcohol Consumption: Cultural practices have resulted in higher safety observance, reducing the risks associated with drinking and driving.
4. Diverse Driving Experience: Indian drivers often have experience in various terrains, from urban areas to mountainous regions, enhancing their judgment and adaptability.
5. Diligence and Responsibility: Their strong work ethic stems from a cultural value of supporting families through earnest work, naturally ingraining the importance of time management and safe driving.

About Marui Transport Inc.

The employer for these two drivers, Marui Transport Inc., is located in Izumi City, Kagoshima Prefecture. Established in 1957, it employs around 1,400 staff members and is a leading logistics enterprise primarily for a renowned poultry group in Japan. With both local presence and international logistics capabilities, Marui Transport stands at the forefront of safety, quality transport, and workforce diversity.

About NAVIS HR

Founded in 2002, NAVIS HR has positioned itself as a national leader in quality Japanese language education and international talent development in India. They implement stringent screening processes to gather skilled individuals across India and maintain strong connections with state governments, working in partnership with eight states. Notably, they have a 90% export rate of Indian caregivers to Japan, alongside efforts in sectors like IT, aviation, and logistical services.

Their office and training center, designed under the concept of an airport, is located in Bangalore, offering state-of-the-art facilities for young aspiring professionals.

Looking Ahead

The partnership begins with 16 candidates for the initial program, and a second cohort of 200 recruits is set to start on July 7, 2025, with ongoing negotiations with multiple companies. Their vision is to expand the model of “drivers = India” through collaboration with national logistical firms and local government units, continuously enhancing the framework of labor supply and demand.

NAVIS Group’s goal, encapsulated in their philosophy “MEGURU,” advocates for a cyclical ecosystem where Indian talents learn, work, and impart value to future generations across global landscapes, thus enriching connections between nations and regions.