Impressed by the idea and execution of the pink auto initiative in Ranchi, a Chennai-based organization – involved in empowering women by training them in driving commercial vehicles – is planning to make inroads in Jharkhand. A senior representative of the organization has already met members of Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry (ASSOCHAM) and some politicians from the ruling party to facilitate their entry in the tribal State.
Zaclon India Limited – a company that claims to have trained at least 5000 women in Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Maharsahtra and Haryana in driving 11-seater shuttle vehicles for commercial use – is likely to meet representatives of GAIL next week to seek Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) support for their expansion plans in Jharkhand, a senior official of the company said.
Director of Zaclon India, Poonam Chopra was in Ranchi recently to finalise a meeting with the authorities here and proceed with the project. However, she is yet to meet any Government authority and discuss her plans for Jharkhand. “I have heard a lot about tribal women and their sincerity towards work.
The pink auto project in the city is impressive. We want to work in Jharkhand and train the women here in driving commercial vehicles, especially 11-seater shuttles for city plying,” Chopra said.
One of the objectives of the company’s skill development initiative is to empower women by providing livelihood to them, she said, adding that the company saw immense potential in Jharkhand and was looking forward to launch their driver training project here. “Women empowerment is one of the main objectives of our skill development projects. We want to impart driving training to women here, so they can become self-sufficient and financially independent,” Chopra said.
The pink autorickshaws – run by women and for women – was launched in Ranchi back in 2013 in order to ensure safe travelling experience to women in the State capital. The initiative gained appreciation from across the country. Today, pink autos are driven by women but they can be used by passengers from all genders.
Chopra met Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) General Secretary Supriyo Bhattacharya in Ranchi during an ASSOCHAM event at a city hotel and briefly explained the concept to him last week. “He seemed impressed with the idea. The ASSOCHAM event was based on the role of CSR and I truly believe that proper CSR boost to this project can do wonders for the women of the State,” said Chopra.
