CHENNAI: Governor RN Ravi on Friday handed over a new auto to Amala, a woman auto-driver, at Raj Bhavan, fulfilling a promise he had made following a moving appeal she had made earlier this year.

The commitment traces back to International Women’s Day, when Amala, speaking at a Raj Bhavan event, shared her struggles of earning a living by driving a rented auto.

Her speech highlighted the plight of many women in similar circumstances who lack the financial means to own their vehicles. Governor Ravi directed that a new auto rickshaw be provided to her from his discretionary fund.

True to his word, he personally handed over the keys to Amala on Friday, even taking a ride in the auto with her kids. Amala said, “I never imagined the Governor would take my words to heart. The fact that he listened to my Tamil speech and responded with such kindness is something I will cherish forever. Owning this auto is a turning point in my life.”