JANAKPUR, Jan. 17 -- There were days when Madhesi women in Janakpur were mostly confined to their homes, limiting themselves to doing household chores like cooking, doing the dishes and washing clothes. This was what a routine day was like for them-the cycle repeating itself day in and day out.

These days, Madhesi women, in the capital of Province 2, have taken the wheel and are in charge of their own lives, driving auto rickshaws to make a living. Women, who a few months ago were financially dependent on their husbands, now earn for themselves-and for their family.

"How long should I depend on my husband's income? I started driving auto rickshaw because I want to live on my own income," said 26-year old Sarita Kumari Sahani, a resident...