Surekha Yadav, Asia's first female train driver, embodies the spirit of breaking barriers and defying stereotypes in a traditionally male-dominated field. Born on September 2, 1965, in Satara, Maharashtra, she has become an inspiration to women across India and beyond. After an illustrious 36-year career with Indian Railways, she is set to retire on September 30, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of courage and determination.
Yadav's journey began in 1986 when she applied for a job with Indian Railways after completing a Diploma in Electrical Engineering. In 1988, she made history by becoming India's first female loco pilot. Since then, she has piloted various types of trains, including goods trains, suburban locals, the Deccan Queen, and the Vande Bharat Express. In April 2000, she drove the first "Ladies Special" local train for Central Railways. In 2011, on International Women's Day, she became the first woman in Asia to drive the Deccan Queen from Pune to Mumbai. In March 2023, she piloted the Vande Bharat Express, a semi-high-speed train, from Solapur to Mumbai.
Throughout her career, Yadav has received tremendous respect and support from her colleagues and seniors. She has also received numerous awards for her achievements, including the Jijau Puraskar (1998), Women Achievers Awards (2001), and the Rashtriya Mahila Aayog (2001).
Yadav's success has inspired many women to join the railway sector. As of 2024, there are 1,828 women loco pilots working with the national transporter, a significant increase from 371 a decade ago. Yadav's story demonstrates that women can excel in any field if they are given the opportunity and support.
Reflecting on her journey, Yadav acknowledges the challenges she faced in a male-dominated profession. However, she emphasizes the importance of hard work, dedication, and family support in achieving one's goals. She also credits the city of Mumbai for providing a safe and supportive environment for her to work.
In her farewell message, Yadav encourages more women to take up the challenge of becoming loco pilots, while also cautioning them about the demands of the role. She notes that the job requires working under difficult conditions and being prepared to face unexpected problems.
Surekha Yadav's retirement marks the end of an era, but her legacy will continue to inspire generations of women to pursue their dreams and break barriers in all fields. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of determination, resilience, and the unwavering belief that machines don't see gender.
