In Udaipur, Rajasthan, women are actively shaping the city's development by embracing new roles both as drivers and entrepreneurs.

A prominent example is the appearance of pink autos operated by female drivers, which represent independence and determination. Kiran, a former homemaker, explains her journey: “The beginning was not easy,” she says, “But with each passing day, my fear reduced and my confidence grew.” She emphasises that “Women should come forward in every field. They can do anything, drive autos, buses, even aeroplanes. Women are not weak in any field.” The Pink Auto scheme supports women with driving training, licensing, and financial aid, fostering both employment and a safer travel option, particularly for women passengers.

Resident Anjali comments, “It feels reassuring to see a woman driving an auto. As girls, we often worry about safety while travelling. But when a woman is driving, it feels more secure and relatable.” Beyond transport, women in Udaipur are advancing in entrepreneurship. Chartered Accountant Apeksha Singhvi left her corporate career in 2021 to establish a laundry business, which now serves over 50 hotels and employs more than 40 people, mainly women.

She recalls the initial scepticism: “It was quite shocking for everyone initially,” but adds that support from family and friends helped her persevere. Supervisor Tara Paliwal remarks, “Working here gave me the motivation to believe that I can do this. No work is small or big. If someone says you can’t do something, you should not lose courage you should keep working.” Another example is Neha Paliwal, co-founder of Archana Group of Industries, who has expanded her family's century-old incense business into a globally recognised brand exporting to Argentina, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Kuwait, and Dubai.

Neha recalls her grandfather’s vision: “My grandfather had a dream to create something where no woman would return empty-handed.” The company employs approximately 750 workers, mostly women from nearby communities, providing them with financial and social empowerment. One employee states, “This work has given me confidence to become self-reliant. I am very happy. There are many women like me here, and the support from the entire staff is very encouraging.” From driving pink autos to leading international enterprises, women in Udaipur are transforming their lives and societal views, united by the goal of self-reliance. Their progress represents a broader movement in India where women lead change, achieving not only economic advancements but also confidence, dignity, and identity, reflecting a new India that they actively propel forward.