Baripada, July 14: In a historic move towards gender equality and women’s empowerment, Sandhyarani Majhi from Mayurbhanj district has become the first woman to be appointed as a government vehicle driver in Odisha.
Sandhyarani has been assigned to drive the official vehicle of Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary of the Department of Housing & Urban Development and Transport. Her appointment marks a significant milestone for the state, breaking gender barriers in a field traditionally dominated by men.
Trained at the Heavy Motor Vehicle (HMV) Training Centre under the State Transport Authority, Sandhyarani completed her instruction at the Chhatia Bairi-based training institute. Following her successful training, she was officially appointed to the role—an unprecedented achievement for women in the state’s transport sector.
Until now, women in Odisha had been appointed as conductors in the “Ama Bus” service and the Odisha State Road Transport Corporation (OSRTC). However, this is the first time a woman has been appointed to operate a government vehicle.
The Department of Commerce and Transport, under Usha Padhee’s leadership, has launched a broader initiative to empower women through professional training. The department has announced plans to train approximately 500 women drivers every year, aiming to enhance economic independence and promote inclusivity.
“This journey has taught me that drivers bear more responsibility and humility than passengers,” said Usha Padhee, reflecting on the significance of the initiative.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida congratulated Sandhyarani on her groundbreaking achievement, calling it a “milestone in the field of women’s empowerment.” Transport Minister Bibhuti Bhusan Jena and MLA Upasana Mahapatra also extended their wishes via social media, lauding the initiative by the Transport Department.
As Sandhyarani Majhi takes the wheel, she not only drives a vehicle but also steers Odisha toward a more inclusive and empowered future.
