An institute founded 107 years ago in the former Baroda state by Maharani Chimnabai Gaekwad, wife of Maharaja Sayajirao Gaekwad, aimed to improve the living conditions and financial empowerment of poor women.
The Shree Maharani Chimnabai Stree Udyogalaya (MCSU), which has been fighting for women's rights for over a century, will soon launch a project called Pink Line to help women travel safely in the city. It will train women to drive four-wheelers and heavy public transportation vehicles for this purpose.
Women use public transport in large numbers. But very few female drivers find a chance in the hugely male-dominated job. We, however, wish to bring about a change in the thought process. Our institution will be launching a training programme wherein women can learn driving cars, auto rickshaws and heavy vehicles,” said Radhikaraje Gaekwad, trustee and vice-president of MCSU.
“Many women have to face sexual harassment in public transport and the horrors of Nirbhaya rape case is fresh in public memory. Having more women as drivers in public transport will ensure safety of female passengers. This is my dream project,” Radhikaraje told.
The royal scion went on to say that MSCU's assistance will not stop with the women's training, but will also include assistance with bank loans and driving licences.
“Our focus will initially be on women who have lost an earning member of their family during Covid. This driving training project will serve the dual purpose of increasing safety of women in public transport and giving livelihood to the needy women,” she explained.
The MCSU has organised a two-day exhibition beginning Friday at its premises opposite Sursagar Lake to raise funds for this project as well as a variety of planned vocational courses.
“The exhibition ‘Urja 2021’ is a fund-raiser for MCSU that is now going through a makeover and stepping into the new age. We are planning to introduce contemporary courses including English speaking, on operating household machines and geriatric care for women,” Radhikaraje added.
Hema Chauhan, a member of the MCSU core committee, stated that artisans from all over the country will be displaying their handmade products in the exhibition.
