Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 03 September 2025
Under the guidance of the Chief Secretary, the SARTHINI scheme has been launched jointly by the Rural Self Employment Training Institute (RSETI), State Bank of India, and the Transport Department of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration. The scheme aims to provide free Light Motor Vehicle (LMV) driving training to women across the Union Territory, with a special focus on those from poor and underprivileged backgrounds, to enhance their employability and promote self-reliance.
The initiative has received an encouraging response from women applicants throughout the Islands. The first batch, comprising 34 women candidates, commenced their training on August 30, 2025, at Swaraj Dweep. Along with driving lessons, participants are also receiving an entrepreneurial module to prepare them for future employment and self-employment opportunities.
The second batch of trainees is expected to begin in the second week of September 2025 in North & Middle Andaman District, with similar training programs to be rolled out in other regions of the UT in the coming months.
SARTHINI scheme marks an important step towards women empowerment and skill development in the Islands. By equipping women with driving skills and entrepreneurial knowledge, the initiative is expected to open new avenues for income generation, thereby strengthening their role in society and fostering self-sufficiency. (Story Based on PR)
