An all-women-operated train flagged off from Ranchi on International Women’s Day
An all-women crew operated a special MEMU train from Ranchi Junction Railway Station to Khirgaon on International Women's Day
On the occasion of International Women's Day, Ranchi Junction Railway Station witnessed a special initiative highlighting the growing role of women in the Indian Railways. An all-women-operated train was flagged off from Ranchi to Khirgaon in the presence of senior railway officials, marking a symbolic step towards women’s empowerment in the sector.
Before the departure, women railway personnel were warmly welcomed at the station and presented with roses in recognition of their contribution and service.
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Speaking on the initiative, senior railway official Shuchi Singh said, "Keeping International Women's Day in mind, we have taken a special initiative today at Ranchi station, where the entire division is being completely manned by women. You can see many women deployed at the gates, women train ticket examiners, women personnel from the RPF, and even a woman station master. The designation 'station master' traditionally sounds male, but in Indian Railways, many women are now serving in this role. They are also working on specialised panels, which are considered highly technical in nature, so there, too, we will find women. In addition, a special MEMU train running from Ranchi to Khirgaon is being operated entirely by women."
Meanwhile, travelling ticket examiner Masira Surin says, "We feel very happy that this happens every year on this day. We get this opportunity every year, and it brings us great joy that on Women's Day all the women work together."
Highlighting the increasing participation of women in the railways, assistant loco pilot Dipali Amrut shared her experience:
Dipali Amruy, Assistant Loco Pilot, says, "When I first joined in 2007, I was the only woman here. But gradually, the interest of women in this field increased, and more women realised that they can work in this sector as well. Today, there are many women working here. On the railways, women feel very safe. In some other places women may feel unsafe, but the Railway family is like a strong support system where women feel very secure."
Railway officials said the all-women-operated train from Ranchi stands as a powerful symbol of empowerment, reflecting how women are steadily taking charge across diverse and technical roles within Indian Railways.
Published: 09 Mar 2026, 01:49 pm IST
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