Vande Bharat Express Makes History with All-Women Crew on International Women's Day

By siliconindia  |  Saturday, 08 March 2025, 10:34:49 AM IST

Vande Bharat Express Makes History with All-Women Crew on International Women's Day
In a historic first for Indian Railways, the Vande Bharat Express was run by an all-women crew for the very first time on International Women's Day. Train No. 22223 started from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to Sainagar Shirdi at 6:20 am, setting a strong gender milestone in the industry.
The train was driven by Asia's first woman loco pilot, Surekha Yadav, and assistant loco pilot Sangeeta Kumari. Train operations were handled with expertise by Shweta Ghone, and a group of women Travelling Ticket Examiners (TTEs), head ticket examiners Anushka KP and MJ Rajput, facilitated smooth journeys for the passengers. Senior ticket examiners Sarika Ojha, Suvarna Pashte, Kavita Maral, and Manisha Ram made up the committed team.
From loco pilot to on-board catering staff, the entire journey was taken care of by women, hailing their strength, leadership, and devotion. Railway officials observed that this experiment goes on to show Indian Railways' strength in empowering women and implementing inclusive job opportunities.
The Vande Bharat Express, celebrated for its speed, efficiency, and modern amenities, has revolutionized Indian rail travel. This historic all-women operation underscores the progress being made in breaking gender barriers in traditionally male-dominated industries.
The occasion also fell on International Women's Day, an international celebration of women who empower and drive change. The 2025 theme of 'Accelerate Action' puts the spotlight on the imperative for accelerating action to achieve gender parity. According to a World Economic Forum report, at the existing rate, the world might never reach equality until 2158, making swift change a vital imperative.
This historic expedition remains a testament of advancement, spurring coming generations of females to enter each career, transgressing boundaries, and pushing society toward an egalitarian tomorrow.

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