Economy
Mumbai cab driver Shobhna Avasthi juggles two careers while raising a child as a single mother
The development
What happened
Mumbai-based cab driver Shobhna Avasthi has become a local inspiration after balancing two careers—driving a cab and working as a home tutor—while raising her child as a single mother. Her story highlights the challenges and resilience of single parents in India's financial capital.
At a glance
Key facts
Shobhna Avasthi works as both a cab driver and a home tutor in Mumbai.
She is raising her child as a single mother, managing both professional and personal responsibilities.
Her dual career approach reflects efforts to balance financial stability with caregiving duties.
The story was published by The Indian Express on 12 August 2026.
Background
Context
- Mumbai is one of India’s largest metropolitan cities, known for its high cost of living and competitive job market.
- Single-parent households in India often face financial and social pressures, particularly in urban areas.
- The informal sector, including gig economy jobs like cab driving, plays a significant role in employment for many women.
Significance
Why it matters
- Raises awareness about the economic and social challenges faced by single mothers in urban India.
- Highlights the role of informal sector jobs in supporting single-parent households.
- Reflects the growing presence of women in traditionally male-dominated professions like cab driving.