A remarkable initiative, the ‘Swavalambi Stree Autorickshaw Driving Programme,’ kicked off in June 2024, has already begun changing lives in Mysuru. Spearheaded by the Taliru Foundation in partnership with NR Foundation, Rotary Mysore, and Rotary Mysore East, this program has successfully trained and empowered over 50 women from marginalized communities, transforming them into skilled, professional autorickshaw drivers.
Many of these incredible women were previously trapped in challenging circumstances—single mothers, survivors of domestic abuse, or burdened by poverty and debt. With minimal formal education and few avenues for stable income, their futures seemed bleak. The ‘Swavalambi Stree’ program emerged as a beacon of hope, offering a dignified pathway to financial independence and a brighter future, as highlighted by the foundation.
What started modestly with just 11 learners quickly blossomed into a widespread movement, attracting women from various regions including Mandya, Kodagu, Srirangapatna, Chamarajanagar, H.D. Kote, and Melukote. The women received comprehensive training, starting with basic driving skills at the Maruti driving school, followed by advanced autorickshaw techniques taught by experienced women trainers. Crucially, supplementary life-skill sessions at the NR Foundation boosted their confidence and resilience, preparing them not just for the road, but for life itself.
Even after completing their rigorous training, these women encountered significant hurdles. Access to auto rentals was scarce, and securing loans for vehicle ownership proved challenging due to systemic biases. However, at this crucial point, a powerful alliance emerged: philanthropists Guru and Sulochana Guru, alongside Rotary Mysore, Rotary Mysore East, and the Rotary Club of Chamarajanagara, stepped forward. Their generous financial contributions enabled 14 women to make down payments, turning the dream of owning their own autorickshaws into reality, according to a recent press release.
The ripple effect of this empowerment has been truly profound. Participating women have seen their monthly incomes surge dramatically, from approximately ₹4,000 to an impressive ₹20,000–₹30,000. This financial stability directly translates into better educational opportunities for their children. Beyond economics, the growing presence of women autorickshaw drivers is creating a palpable shift on Mysuru’s streets, fostering a heightened sense of safety and inclusivity for passengers and the community alike, the release further noted.
Mr. Guru, Chairman of the NR Foundation, eloquently stated, ‘Empowerment truly begins when dignity is restored. These women aren’t merely acquiring driving skills; they are actively reclaiming their rightful place in society, charting a course for their families towards a future brimming with hope and genuine self-reliance.’
A.R. Chitra, founder of the Taliru Foundation, emphasized that the initiative transcends mere income generation: ‘This isn’t solely about providing a livelihood; it’s about actively shaping a safer and more inclusive commuting culture right here in Mysuru.’
The remarkable success of these women was recently celebrated at an in-house event hosted by the NR Foundation. During this inspiring gathering, the women proudly showcased their new autorickshaws and shared powerful, heartfelt stories of their personal transformation, immense resilience, and newfound hope for the future.