Chennai/Bengaluru, Aug 2, 2024: Namma Yatri, a mobility app dedicated to empowering and building a strong driver community, has launched an initiative to support the education of children of auto and cab drivers in Chennai and Bengaluru. This scholarship program, called the "Namma Yatri Rising Stars", provides financial assistance to 10th and 12th-grade students, recognizing their academic achievements and helping them pursue higher education.
The Namma Yatri Rising Stars program aims to uplift over 500 students each year, offering essential support to those who excel academically despite challenging circumstances.
Among the notable recipients is Bhavana, daughter of Siddegowda who drives an auto for Namma Yatri in Bengaluru, who scored 625/625 in SSLC exam. Bhavana has been a highly aspirational and a hardworking student despite the financial situation at home and aspires to become an IAS and serve the country. These scholarships not only alleviate financial burdens but also open doors to a brighter future for these talented students.
Scholarships were awarded at events held recently in Bengaluru and Chennai. At the Bengaluru event, students had the opportunity to share their aspirations and participate in a cultural program. The Chennai event was presided over by T Abraham IAS, Commissioner of Technical Education, M Arun Prakash, Founder & CEO of Guvi, and leaders of driver unions. In both cities, students were selected through a rigorous screening process to ensure that the most deserving and meritorious candidates received the scholarships.
N Chandrabose, an auto driver from Rajapalayam and father of C Parthasarathy who got into IIT, shared, "This scholarship has been a blessing for my family. Despite being a school topper in 10th, I had to drop out of school and become an autorickshaw driver due to financial constraints. I did not want my son to go through a similar situation. He can now concentrate on his studies and live his dream. Namma Yatri's support means a lot to us."
C Parthasarathy added, "I am extremely happy to receive this scholarship. It allows me to pursue my dreams without worrying about the financial burden. Knowing that Namma Yatri supports hardworking and aspirational students like me is truly motivating."
Namma Yatri has also initiated several other programs for the welfare of its drivers like zero-commission rides, creating awareness around government welfare schemes, financial education, the Mahila Shakti Program for empowering women drivers, flexible working hours.
Looking ahead, Namma Yatri plans to expand the scholarship program to more cities and develop additional welfare schemes for the betterment of drivers and their families. The company is eager to partner with government bodies, non-profit organizations, and CSR wings of corporations to scale this program and benefit a larger number of students.
