Honda kickstarts its Women empowerment initiative
“Stree सारथी…steering her own path”

Commemorates inaugural training batch for female cab drivers at Honda’s Institute of Driving Training and Research (IDTR), Karnal (Haryana)

Gurugram, 04th May 2024: Honda proudly announced the commencement of its “Stree सारथी…steering her own path” women empowerment initiative and commemorated first training batch for female cab drivers at its Institute of Driving Training and Research, Karnal. This is in alignment with the recently signed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Honda’s Institute of Driving Training & Research (IDTR) being the training partner, National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) being the nodal agency and Kedman Skilling Private Limited being the mobilization partner. In addition, BluSmart Mobility has tied up with NSDC to further provide employment to these skilled female cab drivers.

The “Stree सारथी…steering her own path “initiative launched by Honda aims to empower women by providing them with opportunities for economic independence and creating avenues in the new domain, such as transportation. Through this initiative, IDTR aims to upskill over 250 female participants, equipping them with the necessary knowledge and expertise to pursue their careers.

The training program at IDTR includes diverse aspects such as Interactive theory sessions covering road safety rules and defensive driving techniques, Advanced Driving Simulators to hone skills and practice in simulated environment, a dedicated driving lab equipped with advanced technology for skill development, On-track Driving training on a professionally designed driving track, focusing on precision manoeuvres, obstacle avoidance and real-world driving scenarios, and Automated Driving Testing Track to familiarize trainees with the latest testing procedures and equipment. The first batch of this innovative training program underwent intensive training to equip themselves with the knowledge and expertise to excel as cab drivers within the automotive domain.

Speaking on Honda’s commitment towards building a relationship of trust with community to contribute to developing a sustainable society, Mr. Vinay Dhingra, Vice President, Institute of Driving Training and Research (IDTR) Karnal, Haryana said, “At Honda, we are committed to promoting gender equality and creating opportunities for women to excel in every sphere. The initiative highlights our dedication to inclusivity and ideally aligns with our long-term mission of becoming a ‘Company that Society wants to Exist’. In line with the Government focus of women empowerment, we aim to provide them with the platform and support they need, to pursue fulfilling careers.”

Honda’s corporate philosophy is founded on the fundamental principles of “Respect for the Individual” and the “Three Joys” to support Honda’s universal passion: to improve the quality of people’s daily lives.

About Institute of Driving Training & Research (IDTR), Karnal, Haryana

Honda in collaboration with the Haryana state government has started Institute of Driving Training & Research (IDTR) at Karnal to provide practical training to drivers regarding sound driving habits and to impart adequate information on traffic rules. This state-of-the-art training facility under the aegis of Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, Haryana is equipped with the facility of simulators for all categories namely, two-wheelers, four-wheelers, and heavy vehicles to provide realistic virtual environment to all the learners.

About National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC)

National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) is a not-for-profit public limited company under Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE). Its mandate is to promote skill development by providing funding to enterprises, companies and organisations that provide skill training.

For more information, please contact: corporate.communications@honda.hmsi.in