A significant transformation is underway in Bihar, with women increasingly making their mark in areas once primarily occupied by men. This shift is reflected in the increasing number of women obtaining driving licenses for light motor vehicles, a trend supported by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Since 2018, over 129,000 women in the state have obtained licenses for both two-wheelers and four-wheelers.
Data from the Transport Department reveals that Patna district leads the way, with 29,417 women acquiring driving licenses in the past eight years. Muzaffarpur district follows with 18,560 women gaining their licenses.
Patna division leads in license distribution, with over 40,000 licenses issued to women. Tirhut division is next, with roughly 33,000 women holding licenses. The Darbhanga, Magadh, and Munger divisions also show good numbers, ranking third, fourth, and fifth, respectively. Kosi division has the fewest licenses, with about 4,000 women holding them.
Transport Secretary Sandeep Kumar R. Pudakalkatti observed that women, who formerly relied on others for transport, are now gaining independence by driving themselves, showing confidence and empowerment.