In Bengaluru, an inspiring initiative called ‘Namma Yatri’ is transforming the lives of women by offering free auto-rickshaw driving lessons. Launched in October 2023 under the banner ‘Mahila Shakti’ (Women’s Power), this programme aims to empower women by training 1,000 female drivers. The goal is not just to provide skills, but also to promote self-reliance and economic independence in a male-dominated industry.
Since its inception, ‘Namma Yatri’ has successfully trained 108 women, many of whom have taken the leap into driving auto-rickshaws professionally. Of those trained, 38 have acquired their own vehicles, marking a significant step towards financial independence. Nagalakshmi, the chief trainer of the driving division, shared insights with Prajavani, stating, “We initiated this project last year after some women passengers expressed their preference for female auto drivers. Many women showed interest, but some dropped out midway. Currently, 108 women have completed the training and are working as full-time auto drivers, while 30 more are undergoing training.”
The comprehensive training spans 40 days and includes both practical and theoretical lessons. Practical sessions are held from Monday to Friday, while Saturdays are dedicated to theory classes. The curriculum is meticulously designed to cover essential areas such as road safety, traffic rules, mobile app usage, map reading, customer interaction, and handling emergencies. This holistic approach ensures that the women not only learn how to drive but also how to navigate the challenges of working in the transport sector.
To facilitate the transition from training to actual driving, Namma Yatri offers newly trained drivers the opportunity to rent auto-rickshaws at a nominal fee of ₹395 per day for a duration of four months. This initiative encourages the drivers to aim for a daily income of at least ₹1,200, allowing them to save approximately ₹400 after expenses. Over four months, this savings plan enables participants to accumulate around ₹50,000, which can serve as a down payment for purchasing their own auto-rickshaw through a bank loan.
This model not only provides immediate financial relief but also encourages a habit of saving among the participants. By helping women without a credit history to become eligible for loans, Namma Yatri is paving the way for long-term financial stability.
The impact of this programme has been life-changing for many women. Tamil Selvi, an auto driver from Koramangala, shared her poignant story: “After my husband’s death nine years ago, I struggled to support my three children. Namma Yatri came as a godsend, helping me build a sustainable livelihood. Now, I earn ₹1,000 to ₹1,500 daily with my own auto-rickshaw.” Her experience reflects the empowerment that comes not just from earning an income, but also from the confidence and skills gained through the programme.
The stories of participants like Tamil Selvi highlight the broader implications of Namma Yatri’s initiative. By providing women with a means of income, the programme fosters a sense of agency and self-worth. It encourages women to participate in the workforce and helps to dismantle societal norms that often limit their opportunities.
The success of Namma Yatri’s training programme demonstrates the potential for women’s empowerment through targeted skill development and support within the transportation sector. As more women take to the roads as drivers, they not only challenge gender stereotypes but also contribute significantly to the local economy. The initiative creates a ripple effect, inspiring others in their communities and encouraging a more inclusive workforce.
‘Namma Yatri’ stands as a testament to the power of education and support in driving change. By equipping women with the skills to become auto drivers, the organisation is helping to shape a future where women are not just passengers in their own lives but are at the helm of their economic destinies. As the programme continues to grow, it promises to bring even more women into the fold, further enriching the community and empowering future generations.