In a male-dominated profession, Sunita Nayak, a graduate of Puri, has now earned recognition for herself as the first e-rickshaw driver. She had cleared her driving test recently following enforcement of new Motor Vehicles Act in Odisha.

Her dedication and efforts to achieve best in her profession even stunned the transport authorities during the test to obtain driving licence. The officials’ praise for Sunita was reflected on the Twitter handle of the State Transport Authority (STA).

“Sunita Nayak is the First lady to pass E-Rickshaw driving test at Puri today. She is a graduate in Hindi from IGNOU,” Tweeted the STA.

Sunita, daughter of Trinath Nayak and a resident of Markandeswar Sahi in the town, set example for many especially for the unemployed youths who opt to migrate to other States in search of jobs following completion of higher studies.

The girl, who was born and brought up in a poor family, could not afford to get enrolled at a reputed educational institution.

However, she continued her study at the IGNOU and successfully completed her graduation degree in Hindi after intermediate course.

With the degree, Sunita did not want to dream for marriage; rather, the youngest daughter of her father wanted to support her family financially. With help of her father, she bought a battery-operated auto-rickshaw and drove around the town, particularly in the Bada Danda (Grand Road) area.

As she had no driving licence, she applied for it after implementation of the new MV Act. As per the rule, she appeared in the test and cleared it successfully.

“I always wanted to work independently and prove my mettle by achieving something different from others. Now, driving an e-rickshaw is my occupation,” said Sunita.