First women’s mobility centre launched in Gadwal

Metro India News | JOGULAMBA GADWAL

In a first-of-its-kind initiative in Telangana, a Women’s Mobility Centre was inaugurated in Gattu mandal of Jogulamba Gadwal district, aiming to promote women’s mobility, skill development and economic independence. The initiative is part of the Telangana Inclusive Livelihood Programme (TILP), under which 1,033 families across 14 villages have been identified for focused support.

District Collector Rizwan Basha Shaik inaugurated the centre along with Gadwal MLA Bandla Krishna Mohan Reddy. Established under the aegis of the Society for Elimination of Rural Poverty (SERP) with support from the MOVO voluntary organisation, the centre is designed to equip women and adolescent girls with driving skills and livelihood opportunities.

As part of the initiative, the local Women’s Federation procured four electric scooters, an auto-rickshaw and a bicycle for training purposes. Addressing the gathering, the Collector said empowering women is not merely a welfare measure but a transformative step towards building stronger families and communities. He described mobility as a key driver of confidence, freedom and financial self-reliance.

A major highlight of the programme was a demonstration ride by a woman trainee, who drove an auto-rickshaw carrying the District Collector and the MLA. The symbolic gesture drew applause from attendees and underscored the growing confidence and capabilities of women in rural areas.

Officials said the vehicles could also be rented through the Women’s Federation, creating sustainable income opportunities for members. The Collector noted that all eligible families identified under TILP would be linked to welfare schemes, livelihood programmes and subsidised bank loans, helping them achieve long-term economic self-sufficiency and improved living standards.