The Odisha Government showcased the inspiring journey of a woman locomotive pilot from Sundargarh during the state-level Republic Day celebrations held at Mahatma Gandhi Marg, Bhubaneswar. The tableau, based on the theme “Women in the Transport Sector”, highlighted Nari Shakti and celebrated women breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated professions.
The tableau featured the remarkable life story of Munni Tigga (41) from Hatibari village in Sundargarh district, who has been serving as a freight train locomotive pilot for the past 14 years. Her journey stands as a testament to determination, resilience, and the transformative power of opportunity.
Born into a farming family, Tigga was an academically bright student and topped her batch in 2002 while studying at Kumjharia Girls’ High School. However, financial constraints forced her to discontinue her education, as her father struggled to support a family of seven children.
Determined to support her family, Tigga initially assisted her father in farming and later worked as a labourer in a private factory located nearly 14 kilometres from her home. She recalled how her mother would wake her up at 2 a.m. every day, after which she cycled through poorly connected roads to reach her workplace, returning late in the evening.
A turning point came in 2004 when Tigga visited her elder sister in Rourkela. Inspired by seeing her school friend pursue higher education, she enrolled in Plus II Science at SG Women’s College, Rourkela. Despite facing setbacks and failing her examinations due to personal challenges, Tigga did not give up.
Encouraged by fellow aspirants preparing for competitive exams near her sister’s residence, she decided to attempt railway recruitment examinations. In 2006, she secured admission to the Government ITI College in Bargarh, marking the beginning of a new chapter in her life.
After completing her technical training, Tigga appeared for railway examinations across various zones. Her perseverance paid off when she was selected as an Assistant Loco Pilot in November 2011. She was promoted to Loco Pilot in 2016, a role in which she continues to serve with distinction.
Tigga married in 2013 and is now a proud parent to a son and a daughter. Currently, she operates goods trains on the Palasa–Khurda route.
“Educating my children is my top priority. I want them to grow into independent individuals,” Tigga said. She also urged women to pursue their dreams with confidence and not succumb to societal pressures.
Her journey, showcased on Republic Day, reflects the growing role of women in India’s transport sector and serves as an inspiration for aspiring youth across the country.
