Synopsis
The number of women employees in Indian Railways has reached 1.13 lakh, constituting 8.2% of the workforce, a significant rise from 6.6% in 2014. Women are taking on critical roles in operations, administration, and maintenance, showcasing their growing influence in this vital sector.Key Takeaways
- Women employees in Indian Railways exceed 1.13 lakh.
- They represent 8.2% of the workforce.
- Significant roles are filled by women, including loco pilots and station masters.
- All-women teams are operational at several railway stations.
- Indian Railways prioritizes gender inclusivity in its recruitment policy.
New Delhi, March 10 (NationPress) The count of women employees in Indian Railways has been on a consistent upward trajectory over the past decade, surpassing 1.13 lakh, which accounts for 8.2 percent of the total workforce, an increase from 6.6 percent in 2014, as per official statistics.
Women are increasingly assuming vital roles in key operational positions within the railway system. An official statement reveals that currently, 2,162 women serve as loco pilots, while 794 women have taken on the responsibilities of train managers (guards). Furthermore, 1,699 female station masters are stationed throughout India.
The figures for women loco pilots and station masters in Indian Railways have soared fivefold over the last decade, according to a senior official.
Beyond operational roles, women are significantly contributing to the administrative and maintenance sectors. The Indian Railways employs 12,362 women in office roles and 2,360 women as supervisors. In the realm of track maintenance, a field traditionally dominated by men, 7,756 women are actively working to ensure the safety of train operations.
Women are also prominently involved in passenger services, with 4,446ticket checkers and 4,430 working as pointsmen across various railway stations nationwide.
Moreover, Indian Railways has launched several railway stations operated entirely by women teams to promote gender inclusivity. Notable stations include Matunga, New Amravati, Ajni, and Gandhinagar.
As one of the largest employers globally, with over 12.3 lakh employees in its extensive network, Indian Railways is committed to empowering women, stated a senior official.
“All candidates meeting the eligibility criteria, irrespective of gender, are eligible for recruitment,” Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw mentioned in response to a parliamentary query recently.
The government has prioritized the transformation of Indian Railways into a world-class entity, which transports 2.3 crore Indians daily across the nation affordably, with women increasingly contributing to this mission, added a senior official.
