Breaking Barriers: All-Women Crew Commands Vande Bharat Express

A Historic Moment for Indian Railways

In a groundbreaking initiative to celebrate International Women’s Day, the Central Railways operated the Vande Bharat Express with an all-women crew for the first time. The train journey from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to Sainagar Shirdi was entirely managed by women, marking a significant milestone in the Indian Railways’ commitment to gender inclusivity.

Trailblazing Crew Members

Leading this landmark journey was Surekha Yadav, Asia’s first woman loco pilot, accompanied by assistant loco pilot Sangeeta Kumari. The onboard operations were overseen by train manager Shweta Ghone. A dedicated team of women Travelling Ticket Examiners (TTEs), including head ticket examiners Anushka KP and MJ Rajput, along with senior ticket examiners Sarika Ojha, Suvarna Pashte, Kavita Maral, and Manisha Ram, ensured seamless passenger services.

A Symbol of Empowerment

This initiative underscores the Indian Railways’ dedication to creating an inclusive environment for women. Officials highlighted that this endeavor reflects the organization’s continuous efforts to empower women in various roles within the railway sector.

Nationwide Celebrations

The all-women crew operation was part of broader celebrations across various railway divisions, including Nagpur, Bhusawal, Pune, and Solapur, honoring the contributions of women in the industry.