Ever Heard About A ‘Woman Loco Pilot?’ If Not, Meet Kumkum Dongre!

November 3, 20213 Minutes
Success Stories

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We have always heard and believed that driving a train is a man's job, isn't it? It is pretty much a task! Very risky and challenging.

But Kumkum has cleared that misunderstanding and has turned the tables. She has become India's first woman loco pilot!

But this was not as easy as it sounds. Kumkum had to face challenges too. But she didn't let it break her resolve.

‘Trains’ her childhood fascination…

While kids like Kumkum always dreamt of becoming a pilot, doctor, teacher, etc., young Kumkum dreamt of driving a train.

A daughter becoming a loco pilot is not what all parents would have accepted, but Kumkum's parents were different...

Her father supported the decision that she had taken. And Kumkum did not disappoint him. She completed her B.com and, side by side, took a two-year electrical course from Industrial Training Institute(ITI).

She was so determined that she was completing her education and working on her passion simultaneously.

ITI was a gateway for her to appear for the railway entrance exams. She studied hard and applied for the Assistant Loco pilot post(ALP). Along with that, she completed her post-graduation in social sciences.

When she reached the exam centre, she saw that she was one of the seven women amongst thousands of male entrants.

People were staring at her and the other six girls at the exam centre as if they didn't belong to this profession. By seeing this, anyone would be nervous. But Kumkum did not let this nervousness impact her focus. She passed her exam successfully and was sent to Mumbai for further training.

She finally got her dream job at the Vasai lobby in Mumbai as the Assistant Loco Pilot on a goods train. She then, with her excellent skills, went on to become a Loco Pilot too! On 5th January 2021, an all-woman crew goods train drove from Vasai road to Vadodra.

Along with Kumkum, Udita Verma(assistant loco pilot), Akanksha Rai(Goods guard) were also a part of the crew. It's so heart filling that women are breaking the glass ceilings and smashing stereotypes!

Being the first woman to lead a train, she was made fun of at the exam centre, and her colleagues too didn't trust her and showed their male dominance.

Time and again, Kumkum had to prove that she was worthy of this job. To prove her talent, she used to volunteer under challenging situations in the train journeys. She also had to get down from the train in the middle of the night to check the tires when it had halted in a jungle.

But she did not let such challenges scare her.

This is not the end!

Kumkum is not going to settle on just being a loco pilot of a goods train. She dreams of driving high-speed trains like Rajdhani Express, Duranto, etc. She also wants to train other girls who aspire to become loco pilots. Inspired by Kumkum's journey, there are now 33-woman assistant loco pilots in training in the Mumbai region alone.

If you want to shine like Kumkum and do something extraordinary for your future, Glow and Lovely Careers have many options! Right from helping you choose the right career option to open doors to job opportunities, online courses, scholarship career guidance, it has it all!

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December 28, 20233 Minutes

Leena Tiwari - Founder of the Indian Institute of Sustainable Development

**Leena Tiwari** , who is the visionary founder of the **Indian Institute of Sustainable Development** , commits to fostering a culture of sustainability that has not only earned her acclaim but also made a significant impact on the way India approaches development. As the founder of the **Indian Institute of Sustainable Development** , Leena Tiwari has become a driving force behind initiatives prioritising environmental responsibility and socio-economic progress. Under her leadership, the institute is a beacon for individuals and organisations looking to align their efforts with the principles of **sustainable development** . Sustainable development is more than just a catchphrase for Leena Tiwari; it is a guiding philosophy that permeates every aspect of the **Indian Institute of Sustainable Development** . The institute is a hub for research, education, and advocacy, fostering an environment where individuals can engage with and contribute to realising **sustainable development goals** . One of the primary goals of the **Indian Institute of Sustainable Development** is to create awareness and instil a sense of responsibility towards the environment. Leena Tiwari believes that education plays a crucial role in bringing about a mindset shift, and the institute serves as a platform for disseminating knowledge on sustainable practices and their broader impact. Leena Tiwari's vision aligns seamlessly with the global movement towards achieving the United Nations' **sustainable development goals** . Through the institute, she has created a space where individuals can actively address challenges such as poverty, climate change, and inequality while working towards a more sustainable future for India. The institute's educational programs cater to a diverse audience, from students and professionals to policymakers and community leaders. Leena Tiwari emphasises the importance of equipping individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to integrate sustainability into their respective spheres of influence, thus fostering a multiplier effect in the journey towards **sustainable development** . Leena Tiwari's impact extends beyond the confines of the institute. She actively engages with policymakers, industry leaders, and communities to advocate for sustainable practices. Her work reflects a commitment to bridging the gap between theory and practice, ensuring that the principles of sustainable development are not just academic concepts but actionable strategies for positive change. In India, where rapid development often comes at the cost of environmental degradation, Leena Tiwari's approach is refreshing and necessary. The **Indian Institute of Sustainable Development** serves as a testament to her belief that economic growth can be achieved hand in hand with ecological responsibility. Leena Tiwari's journey as the institute's founder is a story of perseverance and passion. It is a reminder that one person's vision can catalyse a movement towards a more sustainable and equitable future. As she continues to lead the institute, Leena Tiwari remains an influential figure in India's sustainable development landscape, shaping the institution's legacy and contributing to the country's larger narrative of responsible and conscious development. Leena Tiwari's commitment to sustainable development through the **Indian Institute of Sustainable Development** is a shining example of how individuals can be architects of change. Her efforts have created ripples that extend far beyond the institute, influencing the mindset of individuals, communities, and organisations. As the journey towards sustainable development in India unfolds, Leena Tiwari stands as a beacon, guiding the way towards a future where progress is harmonised with the planet's and its people's well-being. Are you looking for some inspiration in your life, like **Leena Tiwari** ? Then, explore various [courses](/online-courses) offered across different fields on [Glow \& Lovely Careers](/) and let your colours of success shine through! #KaamyabiKeRangDikhao