Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 16 September 2025
The LMV Driving SARTHINI Scheme, designed to empower women through skill development and self-reliance, was formally launched on 15th September 2025 at the DC Office premises, Mayabunder, North & Middle Andaman. The scheme was flagged off by Mr. Sushant Padha, IAS, Additional District Magistrate (ADM), Mayabunder.
The initiative focuses on providing Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) driving training classes exclusively for women, enabling them to access better livelihood opportunities and promoting safe and independent mobility.
The flag-off ceremony was attended by the BDO Mayabunder, Assistant Engineer (APWD), staff of the Block Office, and several enthusiastic local women. Officials highlighted that the program has been specially designed to encourage women from diverse socio-economic backgrounds to adopt driving as a professional skill, thereby boosting their employability in sectors such as transport, tourism, logistics, and related services.
Addressing the gathering, dignitaries underscored that SARTHINI is not just a driving training initiative but a step towards women’s empowerment, gender equality, and economic inclusion in the Islands. They expressed hope that the scheme will open new avenues of income generation while strengthening women’s participation in community development.
The event concluded with an orientation session for the first batch of trainees, who expressed excitement and gratitude for the opportunity.
The SARTHINI Scheme marks a milestone initiative in Mayabunder, paving the way for a more inclusive and empowered society.
