Andhra Pradesh: RDT Hands Over Autos To 22 Women

The women had completed a month-long auto-driving training programme conducted by RDT from June to July. The initiative was launched under the RDT Women Empowerment Programme to create livelihood opportunities for women in rural communities.

This is the second batch of women to receive auto-rickshaws under the initiative, taking the total number of beneficiaries to 45, RDT said.

The handover ceremony was held at the RDT main office in Anantapur and inaugurated by Anantapur collector O. Anand and SP P. Jagadeesh, along with RDT co-founder Anne Ferrer. RDT programme director Moncho Ferrer and women empowerment director Visha Ferrer were also present.

The 22 women are from five districts and 17 mandals from both the states. The residential training programme included driving instruction, support to obtain learner’s licences, and accommodation and food for participants from rural areas. The women were also provided training in vehicle maintenance and self-defence, besides yoga.

Addressing the gathering, the collector said the programme was creating opportunities for women and its impact would extend beyond individual families.

The SP said RDT had been supporting families in need and that the initiative would benefit not only the 22 women but also their families.

Moncho Ferrer said the first batch had been doing well, with good earnings and a steady source of income, and expressed hope that the second batch would also build successful livelihoods.

Visha Ferrer said the auto-driving training programme was started in 2023 with 23 women. This year, 22 women from five districts were supported through the initiative, along with training in yoga, vehicle maintenance and self-defence and assistance with licensing, she said.