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"Machines don't see gender; they see your strength," remarks Surekha Yadav, who has been operating India's trains for more than thirty years.

Recently, Ms Yadav completed her professional journey after 36 years of service, finishing her career as India's initial female rail pilot.

Overcoming Challenges

Today, there are over two thousand women locomotive pilots in the Indian Railways, but Ms Yadav took up the position at a time when it was rare for women to pursue this profession.

Born in 1965 in a small town in India's western Maharashtra state, Ms Yadav originates from a agricultural background and is the oldest of five siblings.

Since childhood, she was accustomed to physical labor, assisting her family on the farm while also pursuing education.

"Even though my parents had a humble origin, they were progressive in their thinking. They educated me and that permitted me to work."

Career Beginnings

After finishing her education as an electrical engineer, Ms Yadav immediately began looking for a job. She casually saw a newspaper advertisement by the Indian railways, hiring assistant train drivers, and seized the chance.

At the time, she had no idea that there were zero women locomotive pilots in the country. She simply saw the job as a way to make a living.

Government jobs are much sought-after in India because of the stability and benefits they offer. But securing a position for one is challenging, as thousands of applicants from all over the country contest for a individual position.

Overcoming Challenges

Ms Yadav cleared the selection process with flying colours, and got her first job on a goods train in 1989.

It was only when she started her instruction that she discovered the profession was incredibly male-dominated.

She recollects the initial day she went in for training. While she didn't anticipate many lady candidates, she was astonished when she saw there wasn't a single girl in her class.

"I questioned what to do. But I reflected, if I don't undertake the job, someone else will. Since I've been selected, I'll do it," she says.

Professional Growth

Locomotive pilots use various observation tools to supervise different components of the travel, including paths and velocity. They have to be alert at all times and make rapid choices to avert mishaps and guarantee traveler security.

Countless rail vehicles criss-cross India's sprawling railway network each day, ferrying countless travelers to their destinations. India's trains are often referred to as the lifeline of the country because of the scope of their reach and how cost-effective they are.

Ms Yadav says she learnt the ability to understand indications, anticipating problems and reacting in real time to avert crises.

Professional Achievements

In 1996, she was promoted to the role of locomotive pilot - the main operator of the train's operating compartment, or the "central hub" of the train.

The variable timings, due to unforeseen delays and accidents, was one of the most difficult aspects of the job.

Come rain or shine, she had to report for work. Irregular eating schedules and unavailability of toilets or female dressing areas on some trains contributed to the challenges.

Personal Sacrifices

Ms Yadav says she has operated trains on flooded tracks, across hill routes and on extended trips.

She maintained employment throughout two pregnancies and raised her children while persisting in her career.

The character of her work, she says, didn't permit her to long for her children when she had to be away from them.

"You need to monitor the light, the track, the overhead equipment, hear your partner, and keep your eyes on the velocity - all at the same time. How might I ponder my children?" Ms Yadav says. "Should your attention wander for even half a minute, even a moment, it can be risky for every traveler."

Support System

She recalls having to miss several kinship events and trips because of her job. But backing from relatives and male co-workers supported her adjustment.

"My workmates were wonderful. They never made me feel like I was different because I was a woman. Some people may have believed that, but not my co-workers," she says.

In her long career, Ms Yadav also got the opportunity to mentor prospective locomotive pilots, many of them women.

Her aspiration is that her employment history will function as encouragement to others.

Concluding Mission

On her concluding day, Ms Yadav operated the elite intercity service - one of India's premium long-distance trains. At the final stop in India's economic hub Mumbai she was given a grand farewell by her workmates, featuring beating drums and artistic movements.

"I never imagined I'd drive trains till I became 60," Ms Yadav says.

When questioned what she'll long for most about her job, she said it's the illuminated signs.

Those small directional indicators always assisted her in locating the way.