Under unique initiative, victims of domestic abuse get e-rickshaw training in Bhopal

In a bid to make victims of domestic violence financially independent, 'Gauravi' is imparting the skill of e-rickshaws driving to women in Madhya Pradesh's Bhopal.

Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): 'Gauravi', a one-stop centre for helping victims of domestic violence and other crimes, has started a training programme under which the participating women are being taught the skill of riding e-rickshaws.

The organisation, which is aided by the central government, also plans to help the women in getting their licenses and clearing up their loans to make them self-dependent.

"Most of the women who are undergoing the training program are illiterate. A month-long training program is being run, after which we will also help them in getting loans for getting their e-rickshaws. We will also help them in taking care of their licenses and other paperwork," Shivani, an instructor at the institute said.

"Through Gauravi, we are attempting to impart the skill of driving to women. It is a one-stop centre for aiding women who have faced domestic violence and abuse. Most of the women who come here are either the sole bread earners for their family or are living alone after years of abuse," she added.

The training is being imparted to 12 women in the first batch and the organisation plans to train at least 40 women by the end of this year.

"The 12 women who are undergoing the training process currently have shown great enthusiasm. We aim to teach the skill to at least 40 women this year. Most of the women who come here have faced domestic violence, or have been targeted for dowry, they, however, wish to fight back and rise up which is a great sign," Shivani said.

The women receiving training at the centre expressed willingness to rise up in society and recounted their tales of horror which had pushed them to find ways to take care of their economic needs.

"I have been getting the training since January 2. I have to support my two daughters alone as my husband is an addict and fights with me whenever I ask for money. I want to do something more for my daughters to make their future better. I come here with my children as I cannot leave them alone at home," Hema Malaviya, one of the trainees said.