Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw informed the Lok Sabha that as of March 31, 2024, a total of 99,809 women are employed in the Indian Railways. This includes 2,037 women loco pilots, a vital role in the operation of trains. The information was provided in response to questions raised by BJP MP Dr. Manna Lal Rawat, who sought details about the number of women employees in Indian Railways and their participation in train operations.
Vaishnaw emphasized that recruitment in Indian Railways follows a gender-neutral approach, where both men and women candidates who meet the prescribed eligibility criteria are considered equally for various roles. He noted that direct recruitment to different positions within Indian Railways is conducted as per the standard procedure, ensuring that opportunities are open to all, regardless of gender. The Railway Minister’s response highlights a growing presence of women in key operational roles, such as loco pilots, who are typically responsible for driving and operating trains. While loco piloting has traditionally been male-dominated, the inclusion of 2,037 women loco pilots marks an important step toward greater gender diversity in the sector. It also signals a broader movement toward empowering women and providing them with career opportunities in high-skill, technical fields such as train operations.
The number of women in Indian Railways has increased over time, and this steady growth reflects the organization’s commitment to creating a more inclusive and diverse workforce. In addition to loco pilots, women hold a variety of positions across different departments within the Railways, ranging from administrative roles to technical jobs, contributing to the efficient functioning of one of the world’s largest rail networks. For Dr. Manna Lal Rawat, the query was not only about the current numbers but also about the percentage of women among loco pilots compared to their male counterparts. While precise percentages were not immediately provided, the inclusion of over 2,000 women loco pilots is a notable step in diversifying train operations. The presence of over 99,000 women employees in the Indian Railways, with a growing number in key operational positions like loco pilots, showcases the evolving landscape of gender equality in India’s rail sector. This progress is indicative of broader efforts to empower women across industries, ensuring they have equal opportunities for employment and career advancement.
