more-in It has been a week since Janaki (name changed) enrolled herself for the two-wheeler driving classes. She feels confident to settle into the driving seat of the vehicle to rev up the engine and zoom past the busy streets. After dealing with impolite auto-rickshaw drivers and fellow passengers who ogle at her and try to make her feel uncomfortable, inching closer to her whenever she boards a share-auto, Janaki has decided to break free of all the hassles she comes across everyday. The nearest driving instructor has helped her minimise the dependence on auto-rickshaw drivers. A team of women, donning the role of driving instructors behind Port Stadium, say the demand for two-wheeler driving course has seen an upward trend in the past few years as many approach them these days. “When I started the driving lessons a decade ago, very few girls joined the class. Today, one has to wait for a while to get their slots blocked. Apparently, it gives me immense satisfaction to empower women and see them riding a two-wheeler independently,” says U. Sandhya Rani, who employed a couple of assistants to handle the rush of learners. Reliable source Those who are well-versed with the driving skills find the training line a reliable source to supplement their income. “Driving is the only skill I know ever since my younger days. When my husband expired, I found it difficult to keep the home fires burning. With two children to take care of, I was left with no other choice than to start the driving classes. Now, I earn decent income from the training I provide,” says S. Rajeswari, who gained a five-year work experience as a driving instructor prior to her training endeavour. More than a decade ago, an entrepreneur started the two-wheeler training near the road behind Port Stadium. Abuzz with activity However, this part of the stretch is now abuzz with activity as the number of instructors increased to four. Pandurangi Satyavathi, another driving instructor, sees more demand for the classes as many women feel comfortable to pick up the nuances of the two-wheeler riding under the guidance of a lady instructor. With minimum qualification and investment required to start the venture, a growing number of women entrepreneurs find the training course a viable option.

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