Namma Yatri joins hands with Bengaluru City Police for women auto driving program

Namma Yatri, a community-centric ride-booking app in Bengaluru, recently announced the launch of the Mahila Shakti initiative.

The program, which was launched in collaboration with the Bengaluru City Police, Parihar, and the Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Health and Education Foundation, aims to onboard 1,000 women as electric vehicle (EV) auto rickshaw drivers by June 2024.

The initiative focuses on empowering women from diverse backgrounds, offering them a path to economic independence and challenging societal norms.

Providing training and support for women drivers

The Mahila Shakti program provides a comprehensive one-month training course covering practical driving, traffic laws, safety, and vehicle maintenance. It is designed to support women in starting their own driving businesses.

The program targets women aged 25 to 45 years, offering them an opportunity for higher income and flexible working hours. After completing the free training, participants are provided with electric autos on a nominal daily rent and assistance in obtaining low-interest vehicle ownership through financial institutions.

Impact and progress

Since August 2023, in collaboration with NGOs like Shishu Mandir, the program has supported 50 women drivers who have collectively earned Rs 12 lakh, served 11,000 customers, and covered 55,000 kilometres, according to Magizhan Selvan, Chief Product Officer of Juspay.

"Our aim is to empower 1000 women drivers by June 2024," she said.

Nagalakshmi S P, lead trainer, shared her personal journey: “Becoming an auto driver to support my family was a turning point. Leading this initiative brings immense joy as each Namma Yatri-trained woman driver aims for financial independence. The electric auto and the Namma Yatri app, supported by the Police and Parihar, make it safe and easy for women to start auto driving.”

Program details 

The Mahila Shakti Electric Auto Program simplifies the adoption of driving as a profession through its EV technology and user-friendly app. Women interested in joining the program can contact Namma Yatri by calling 080-69724800 or via WhatsApp at 8618963188.

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