- News Article
Mint: Women drivers steering public transport in big cities
LiveMint’s article showcases the rise of women drivers in India's public transport sector, highlighting the pivotal role of Azad Foundation and its strategic partner Sakha in empowering women through skill training and employment.
LiveMint’s article sheds light on the transformative impact of women drivers in public transportation, highlighting the significant strides made by various organizations, including Azad Foundation. This coverage provides a comprehensive view of how women are breaking stereotypes and excelling in professions traditionally dominated by men.
The article features Anita, a DTC bus driver who transitioned from driving taxis to operating a bus on the Badarpur-Gurugram route. Her journey, illustrates the success of the partnership between Azad Foundation and Sakha with the Delhi Government’s Mission Parivartan, which aims to integrate women drivers into the city’s public transport system.
The article also highlights Azad Foundation’s role in this progressive shift. Established in 2008, Azad Foundation has been at the forefront of training and empowering women in the non-traditional profession of driving alongside its partner Sakha, contributing to an increased presence of women in driving professions across India. Azad and Sakha’s impact is evident in the thousands of women who have gained permanent driving licenses and employment in the transport sector.
Despite the progress, challenges remain. The article acknowledges ongoing gender biases and safety issues faced by women drivers, such as harassment and discrimination. However, the support from CSOs and private firms is crucial in mitigating these issues, offering women not only job opportunities but also training in self-defense and other life skills.
