Bhubaneswar, Oct 13: In a significant move toward women empowerment, the Odisha government has announced plans to launch the ‘Mahila Su Vahak’ scheme, aimed at encouraging women to take up driving and related professions in the transport sector.
The initiative, part of the state’s broader vision for inclusive development, seeks to train, certify, and financially assist women to become professional drivers, transport operators, and entrepreneurs. Under the scheme, women will receive support for driving lessons, vehicle loans, and licensing assistance, enabling them to gain economic independence and break gender barriers in a male-dominated field.
Speaking about the program, officials from the State Transport Department said it reflects the government’s commitment to creating equal opportunities. “This initiative is not just about employment—it’s about empowerment and confidence-building among women,” an official said.
The scheme will also focus on ensuring safety and dignity for women drivers, with provisions for self-defense training and awareness sessions on road safety. The state plans to collaborate with private driving schools and automobile companies to create sustainable employment pathways for women.
Social activists and women’s organizations have lauded the move, calling it a progressive step toward gender equality in the workforce. They believe it could inspire more women, particularly from rural and semi-urban areas, to pursue driving as a viable profession.
Odisha has been at the forefront of women-oriented welfare initiatives, including Mission Shakti, which supports over 70 lakh women through self-help groups. The ‘Mahila Su Vahak’ program is expected to complement these efforts by providing women with both skills and livelihood opportunities in a growing sector.
The official rollout of the scheme is expected later this year, with pilot programs likely to begin in major cities like Bhubaneswar, Cuttack, and Sambalpur.
-OdishaAge
