Surekha Yadav, First Woman Loco Pilot Of Asia To Retire After 36 Years, Anand Mahindra Reacts

Surekha Yadav surrounded by colleagues, friends and family members celebrating her remarkable career.

Central Railway (CR) announced on Thursday (September 18) that Surekha Yadav, Asia's first female locomotive pilot, will retire on September 30 after breaking stereotypes throughout her exceptional 36-year career. Her colleagues, department staff, and family gathered to honor her as she arrived at Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) driving Train Number 22222, the Hazrat Nizamuddin-CSMT Rajdhani Express.

The Central Railway shared on X (formerly Twitter): "Smt. Surekha Yadav, Asia's First Woman Train Driver, will retire on 30th September after 36 glorious years of service."

They further praised her legacy: "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 empowerment in Indian Railways."

Mahindra Group Chairman Anand Mahindra expressed his admiration through a heartfelt message for Ms. Yadav's retirement.

"Congratulations on being a pioneer, Surekha ji. And my best wishes upon your retirement after such a long career of serving the people," Mr. Mahindra wrote.

"Thank you for reminding us today, that iconic change makers like you must be celebrated and your contributions never forgotten," he added to his tribute.

The viral social media posts can be seen here:

Smt. Surekha Yadav, Asia's First Woman Train Driver, will retire on 30th September after 36 glorious years of serviceA 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

— Central Railway (@Central_Railway) September 18, 2025

Congratulations on being a pioneer, Surekha ji.And my best wishes upon your retirement after such a long career of serving the peopleThank you for reminding us today, that iconic change makers like you must be celebrated and your contributions never forgotten.👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽 https://t.co/6BdpV7DENv

— anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) September 19, 2025Also Read | Viral Video Shows Sairang Railway Station Trashed 24 Hours After Inauguration, Railways Responds

Surekha Yadav's Pioneering Journey

Born in Satara, Maharashtra, Ms. Yadav earned a diploma in electrical engineering before discovering her calling as a locomotive pilot. Starting her career as a trainee assistant driver, she persistently worked her way to the top while navigating challenges in this traditionally male-dominated profession.

Beyond being Asia's first female locomotive pilot, she achieved another milestone in 2023 by becoming the first woman to operate the Vande Bharat Express, driving it from Solapur to CSMT. Her groundbreaking achievements have earned her numerous accolades at both state and national levels.