Bihar is witnessing a significant shift as women are increasingly participating in activities previously dominated by men. This trend is evident in the rising number of women obtaining driving licenses for light motor vehicles, a development spurred under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s leadership. Since 2018, the state has seen over 129,000 women acquire licenses for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers.
Statistics from the Transport Department highlight Patna as the leading district, with 29,417 women securing driving licenses in the past eight years. Muzaffarpur follows with 18,560 women, demonstrating their commitment to empowerment through this initiative.
Patna division shows the highest figures in driving license issuance, with over 40,000 licenses issued to women. Tirhut division follows closely, with approximately 33,000 female license holders. Darbhanga, Magadh, and Munger divisions also show significant numbers, ranking third, fourth, and fifth respectively. The Kosi division has the lowest count, with approximately 4,000 women holding driving licenses.
Transport Secretary Sandeep Kumar R. Pudakalkatti highlighted the change, noting that women who previously depended on others for daily tasks like school runs, office commutes, and shopping, are now becoming more independent. Women are not only obtaining driving licenses but are also taking the driver’s seat with confidence.