Women in Mysuru find self-reliance through autorickshaw driving
Forty-five women have become the sole breadwinners for their families after receiving training from the Taliru Foundation, according to The Hindu.
In Mysuru, 45 women have turned to autorickshaw driving to support their families after losing male support. Many of these women, who are the primary earners for their households, have rebuilt their lives through this profession, The Hindu reported.
The Taliru Foundation, a Bengaluru-based NGO, has provided training for operating electric vehicle and compressed natural gas autorickshaws across six batches. The foundation uses a three-stage selection process to identify beneficiaries, provides driving instruction, and helps them secure financial aid to buy vehicles.
One driver, Uma, a resident of Gayathripuram, earns an average of ₹1,000 a day, which increases to between ₹1,500 and ₹2,000 during Dasara. She noted that the profession offers a daily income and flexible hours to care for her children.
Manasa, another driver, uses her earnings to pay for her mother's brain tumour medical expenses. Manjula, a single parent from Srirampura, transitioned to driving after working in a garment factory.
Chitra A.R., founder of the Taliru Foundation, said the biggest challenge is accessing loans because social taboos persist and male surety is often mandatory. The foundation's supporters include Rotary Mysuru, Rotary East, Rotary Metro, and R. Guru, chairman of the N.R.
Foundation.
The women drivers have formed a WhatsApp group called ‘Auto Sakhi’ to connect with passengers. They also provide free transport to persons with disabilities and pregnant women.