Introduction

In a country where progress and tradition often intersect, stories of determination and resilience shine the brightest. Ritika Tirkey, a 27-year-old from Jamshedpur, has scripted history by becoming the first female loco pilot of the prestigious Vande Bharat Express. Her inspiring journey is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and breaking societal barriers, serving as a beacon of hope for women across India.

Jamshedpur, January 20: Ritika’s groundbreaking achievement has now earned her a coveted invitation from the President of India, Droupadi Murmu, to attend the esteemed At-Home reception at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Republic Day, January 26, 2025.

The invitation, a recognition of her dedication and perseverance, was formally delivered to her residence in Jugsalai, Jamshedpur, under the supervision of Assistant Postal Superintendent (West), Parikshit Seth. This honor underscores her exceptional achievements in a traditionally male-dominated field, inspiring countless women to chase their dreams fearlessly.

A Journey of Determination and Excellence

Currently serving as the Assistant Loco Pilot of the Vande Bharat Express operating between Tatanagar and Patna, Ritika stands as a symbol of pride for her family and the entire state of Jharkhand. As the first tribal woman to take on this challenging role, she has shattered stereotypes and opened doors for many aspiring women in Indian Railways.

Ritika’s journey with Indian Railways began in 2019 when she joined as a shunter in the Chakradharpur division of South Eastern Railway (SER). Her relentless hard work and skill saw her rise through the ranks, initially operating freight trains and passenger services, before securing a promotion to Senior Assistant Loco Pilot in 2024. This milestone paved the way for her to become an integral part of the Vande Bharat Express team.

From Humble Beginnings to National Recognition

Hailing from a modest family in Jharkhand, Ritika’s story is one of grit and determination. She completed her schooling in Ranchi before pursuing a BTech in Mechanical Engineering from the prestigious BIT Mesra. Her career with the Indian Railways commenced in Chandrapura, Bokaro, under the Dhanbad Division, before she was transferred to Tatanagar in 2021. It was in Tatanagar where she achieved the promotion that set her on the path to becoming a history-maker.

A Symbol of Women Empowerment

Ritika’s success story is more than just personal triumph; it serves as a powerful example of how women are making strides across various fields, defying odds, and redefining societal expectations. Her relentless pursuit of excellence has earned her a well-deserved spot among India’s trailblazers, and her presence at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Republic Day will further cement her legacy.

A Bright Future Ahead

With the Vande Bharat Express being one of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s flagship projects, Ritika’s role in operating this state-of-the-art train underscores the increasing contributions of women in critical sectors. Her story is a testament to the fact that with hard work, resilience, and an unyielding spirit, no dream is beyond reach.

Conclusion

Ritika Tirkey’s inspiring journey serves as a powerful reminder that gender is no barrier to success. Her achievements illuminate the path for countless others who dare to dream big and work relentlessly to turn those dreams into reality. As she prepares to step into Rashtrapati Bhavan on Republic Day, Ritika stands as a symbol of India’s progressive strides and the limitless potential of women in every field.