Abha Bharti from Bokaro is redefining traditional boundaries by challenging the long-standing notion that driving is exclusively a man's domain. For the past fifteen years, she has dedicated herself to teaching women how to drive cars. What started as a modest initiative with just a single vehicle has now expanded into an enterprise featuring three cars and two dedicated female trainers, with more than three thousand women having successfully completed their training at her center.
During a detailed conversation, the director of the women's motor training center, Abha Bharti, shared that she launched her training venture in the year 2011 with only one car. The early days presented numerous hurdles, but as time passed, the trust of local women grew steadily. Today, her establishment operates three vehicles alongside two female instructors who impart practical driving lessons to women across various localities in Bokaro.
Rising responsibilities and inspiration following personal loss
The journey for Abha Bharti has been paved with significant struggles and perseverance. Following the demise of her husband in the year 2003, the entire responsibility of managing the household fell upon her shoulders. During this period, she frequently felt the need for a vehicle to handle pharmaceutical-related work. Because she did not know how to drive a car herself, she encountered considerable difficulties in her daily commute. This exact life experience planted the seed of an idea in her mind that if women were properly trained in driving, they would never have to depend on others for their mobility and daily needs. Driven by this vision, she decided to teach driving to women, eventually training over three thousand individuals to date.
Fourteen-day special training program and fees
At Abha Bharti's motor training center, women undergo a specialized fourteen-day training program designed to build their road confidence. The curriculum covers everything from the basic operation of a vehicle to navigating roads safely under various conditions. Practical road training is conducted directly by female instructors, and upon successful completion of the training, participants are awarded a certificate. The fee for this fourteen-day comprehensive course is fixed at 4,500 rupees.
Abha Bharti's next objective is to empower as many women in Bokaro as possible, ensuring they do not rely on anyone for their transportation needs and can travel independently wherever they desire. Sharing her perspective, a trainee named Rajul Shailay noted that the instructors at the center explain the finer nuances of driving with exceptional clarity. Although driving on open roads can initially induce fear, consistent practice helps build immense self-confidence over time.
