TV
Breaking gender barriers in Odisha’s transport sector, 45-year-old Sandhya Rani Majhi from Mayurbhanj district has become the first woman to be appointed as a government driver in the state. Her official posting began on June 25, following her selection through the State Transport Authority.
From childhood passion to professional breakthrough
Hailing from Suleipat village, Sandhya’s fascination with driving began in childhood. After riding motorcycles, she progressed to driving cars and eventually taxis in Jashipur area, where she had settled following her marriage to a professional driver.
She earned her light motor vehicle licence in 2011 and went on to secure a heavy motor vehicle licence in 2023 after training at the Chhatia Driving Training Centre in Jajpur district. Balancing family duties, she also worked at a beauty parlour in Bhubaneswar before receiving a call about the government job opening.
She said, "Ever since I was a child, I’ve been fascinated by cars and driving. It’s always been a dream of mine."
"One day, I got a call from Chhatia Driving Training Centre saying there is a driver's position in the state government. I agreed and joined duty on June 25," Sandhya told PTI.
Inspiring support from leadership
Now assigned to drive Usha Padhee, Principal Secretary of the Commerce and Transport Department, Sandhya has earned admiration from senior officials.
"Sandhya Rani’s bold journey behind the wheel shatters gender stereotypes and paves the way for countless women in Odisha to drive change," Padhee wrote on X.
Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida also praised the milestone, saying, "I extend heartfelt congratulations to Sandhya Rani Majhi, Odisha's first female government driver. The Transport Department's initiative is commendable. A new chapter has been added to women’s empowerment."
Encouraging change through initiative
Officials said her appointment is a significant step under the state’s broader efforts like the Women Suvahak initiative to train and employ women drivers. Sandhya’s achievement highlights Odisha’s commitment to inclusivity and inspires others to step into roles traditionally dominated by men.
