• By Shibra Siddiqui
  • Sat, 08 Mar 2025 12:45 PM (IST)
  • Source:JND

International Women's Day 2025: In a unique celebration of International Women’s Day, Central Railways operated a Vande Bharat Express train with an all-women team for the first time. The Vande Bharat train, which runs from Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) to Shirdi, was entirely operated by a women's team, including the loco pilot, assistant loco pilot, train manager, ticket examiner, and onboard catering staff.

Highlighting the significance of this pioneering step, the Chief Public Relations Officer (CPRO) of Central Railways, Swapnil Nila, expressed pride in the initiative.

"Indian Railways has always worked towards creating opportunities for women. In line with our commitment to empowering women, today, on International Women’s Day, we are proud to have an all-women crew operating the CSMT-Shirdi Vande Bharat Express. This initiative extends beyond passenger trains—today, we’ve also ensured that our goods trains are operated by women," Nila said.

Central Railways also shared its pride on social media, calling the decision a ‘historic moment’ that celebrates the strength, dedication, and leadership of women in Indian Railways.

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"For the first time ever, a Vande Bharat Express is being fully operated by an all-women crew, departing from CSMT on this #InternationalWomensDay! A proud moment celebrating the strength, dedication, and leadership of women in Indian Railways," read a post by Central Railways on X.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to ‘Nari Shakti’ in his message on International Women’s Day. Acknowledging women's contributions, PM Modi announced that his social media platforms would be taken over by women from diverse fields.

"We bow to our Nari Shakti on #WomensDay! Our government has always worked toward empowering women, as reflected in our schemes and programs. Today, as promised, my social media accounts will be taken over by women who are making a mark in diverse fields,” PM Modi wrote in his post.

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International Women's Day, observed on March 8, is a global tribute to women who inspire, empower, and champion transformative change. This special day recognizes the incredible contributions women make to their communities and the world at large. This year, the theme for International Women's Day is "For All Women and Girls: Rights. Equality. Empowerment," emphasizing the urgent need for inclusivity and swift action.