In cities across India, mobility has long been a barrier for women,  a reflection of deeply rooted gender norms that limit opportunity, independence, and safety. Sakha Consulting set out to change that through many initiatives, one of them being its Women with Wheels program.

What began as a bold idea to put women behind the wheel professionally has grown into a movement transforming lives, families, and public spaces. 

Through intensive training, self-defence, leadership development, and driver certification, women from low-income and marginalized backgrounds gain more than a job. They gain autonomy, mobility, and a voice.

Their training partner, the Azad Foundation, supports women not only in driving skills, but also in building confidence, leadership, and community networks. With Sakha Consulting providing employment pathways, from cab services to tourism and logistics, Women with Wheels is rewriting what’s possible for women in India’s transport sector.

More than 5500 women have become professional drivers since the program began, making streets safer, shifting public perceptions, and becoming role models in their communities. 

In cities where women once needed permission just to visit the health clinic, they are now navigating highways, leading community change, and inspiring future generations.

Meet Rajni Mala

“Earlier, I was afraid to step outside; today, I confidently drive on the roads of different cities.” – Rajni, Sakha Driver, Indore

For most of her life, Rajni’s world was confined to the walls of her home and the small chocolate factory where she worked. She earned ₹3,000 a month and rarely travelled alone, a reality shared by many women in India who face barriers to mobility and public work.

When her husband passed away, everything changed. With two children to support, Rajni needed not just an income, but dignity, safety, and a future she could steer herself.

Joining the Women with Wheels program became her turning point.

With training, mentorship, and the confidence to navigate public spaces on her own terms, Rajni took the wheel (literally and figuratively!). Today, she drives across multiple Indian cities, including Indore, Bhopal, Pune, Nashik, and Mumbai. She has become the primary earner in her family, ensuring her children receive quality education and new opportunities.

“Driving has given me not just a livelihood but an identity. I am an empowered woman, moving forward strongly both on the road and in life.”

Rajni didn’t just learn to drive, she learned to take control of her journey. And she brings her community along with her, proving what mobility can truly mean: freedom, pride, choice, and leadership.

The impact community tourism is helping support

This is the ripple effect of opting to support Women with Wheels during your travels and beyond: 

• Over 5500+ drivers women, like  Rajni, trained as professional drivers.
• First-ever women driving public buses in Delhi after policy change
• Women become breadwinners, leaders, and decision-makers
• Daughters and sons getting better education, creating intergenerational impact.
• Women shifting from “I cannot” to “I can, and I will.”

For more information about Women with Wheels, you can visit  www.sakhaconsultingwings.com and follow them on social media.