IBS Software’s Women Empowerment Initiative Launched

KOCHI:

IBS Software’s CSR initiative which aims to facilitate job creation for women as cab drivers has been launched by P Rajeeve, Minister for Industries, Law and Coir. Under this not-for-profit initiative, called ‘Futurepoint Cabs’, the company provides two-month free training to women in driving as well as in soft skills and self-defense. All participants who complete the training and possess a valid license are certified as drivers of ‘Futurepoint Cabs’. Brand new cars are purchased by IBS Software and allotted to these certified drivers. Currently, 13 drivers have been certified, and they operate 10 cars in Cochin.

These cars were flagged off by the Minister at a function at IBS Software’s Cochin campus in Infopark. Speaking at the function, the Minister said that “the state has a legion of educated homemakers who can contribute to the economy once provided with skilling opportunities. The Futurepoint Cabs initiative has a social vision that will have far-reaching positive effects for Kerala and its efforts towards gender equality. Kerala’s new strides in female empowerment are indicative of the state’s strength as a democracy.”

Unveiling a short film ‘Futurepoint Cabs’ Uma Thomas MLA said “women by nature have always excelled in multi-tasking. This IBS initiative is yet another salute to that faculty.” C Nagaraju, Transport Commissioner, launched the Futurepoint Cabs app that enables travellers to make reservations. The function was also attended by G Priyanka, District Collector and V Mahesh, DCP.

“This is a part of our larger commitment to empowering women in our society by contributing to their skills, professionalism and confidence. Futurepoint Cabs not only provide them financial independence but also significantly enhances the travelling experience of the people in Cochin. Women passengers and elderly people will find Futurepoint Cabs most useful” said VK Mathews, Executive Chairman of IBS Software.

Currently the operation is restricted to the city of Cochin for the transport requirements of the employees of IBS Software. However, the company plans to expand the footprint significantly. The company currently is giving training to a new set of 25 women drivers. In December 2025 the service available to all corporates in Cochin with a total fleet of 25 vehicles. The service will be open to the public by mid-2026 and the number will go up to one thousand in the next few years.