Asia’s first woman locomotive pilot, Surekha Yadav, is set to retire on 30 September 2025, marking the end of a remarkable 36-year career that broke gender stereotypes and paved the way for women in India’s railways. Hailing from Satara, Maharashtra, Yadav’s pioneering journey began in 1989 when she joined the Indian Railways as the continent’s first female locomotive pilot.
Over the decades, she has not only driven some of the most prestigious trains but also inspired countless women to pursue careers traditionally dominated by men. She was felicitated at Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) where she arrived on the Rajdhani Express, greeted with heartfelt tributes from colleagues, railway staff, and family. Anand Mahindra took to twitter and congratulated her, he hailed her as a pioneer.
Historic Career Milestones
Surekha Yadav’s career is studded with several historic firsts. She was the first woman in Asia to operate not only passenger trains but also goods trains, electric multiple units (EMUs), and renowned services such as the Deccan Queen, the Pushpak Express, and most recently, the semi-high-speed Vande Bharat Express, which she piloted from Solapur to Mumbai in March 2023. Starting as an assistant loco pilot, Yadav progressed to operating local suburban trains and by 2010 had become a senior loco pilot for mail and express trains.
She was the first woman to operate the Mumbai–Pune Deccan Queen Express, a route known for its difficult gradients and sharp curves, demonstrating exceptional skill and composure. In 2011, she led an all-women crew on International Women’s Day, symbolising women’s expanding role in Indian Railways.
Her final journey before retirement was commanding the Rajdhani Express from Hazrat Nizamuddin to Mumbai.
Breaking Barriers and Earning Recognition
Born to a farmer family, Yadav’s journey was made possible through determination and support from her family, especially her father, who believed strongly in educating girls. She holds a diploma in Electrical Engineering from Karad Polytechnic, Maharashtra.
Despite tough working conditions that traditionally deterred women, Yadav excelled by sheer professionalism and perseverance. Her trailblazing role earned her numerous awards including the Jijau Puraskar (1998), Women Achiever Award (2001), Central Railway Woman Achiever Award (2011), and multiple recognitions from the Railway Ministry.
Anand Mahindra Hails Surekha Yadav as an Iconic Changemaker
Anand Mahindra, chairman of the Mahindra Group, lauded Surekha Yadav as a true pioneer for women in Indian Railways. He congratulated her on Twitter for breaking barriers and inspiring countless women to dream big.
Mahindra emphasised the importance of recognising trailblazers like Yadav, saying their contributions should never be forgotten as they pave the way for a more inclusive future. His message resonates with ongoing efforts to empower women in traditionally male-dominated fields, acknowledging Yadav’s impact beyond just her profession.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
Surekha Yadav’s story is a powerful testament to the possibilities that open when societal barriers are challenged and equality is championed. Her exemplary career not only redefined women’s roles in Indian Railways but also inspired institutional changes encouraging more women to join operational roles.
At a time when women continue to face hurdles in many technical fields, Yadav’s success urges society to continue pushing for inclusivity and equal opportunity.
Smt. Surekha Yadav, Asia’s First Woman Train Driver, will retire on 30th September after 36 glorious years of service
— Central Railway (@Central_Railway) September 18, 2025
A true trailblazer, she broke barriers, inspired countless women, and proved that no dream is beyond reach.
Her journey will forever remain a symbol of women… pic.twitter.com/5zDOzvkAD4
Congratulations on being a pioneer, Surekha ji.
— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) September 19, 2025
And my best wishes upon your retirement after such a long career of serving the people
Thank you for reminding us today, that iconic change makers like you must be celebrated and your contributions never forgotten.
👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 https://t.co/6BdpV7DENv
