From traffic to power grids, statewide celebrations highlight women’s success

Patna: International Women’s Day was observed across Bihar on Sunday with great enthusiasm and fervour. The day, dedicated to celebrating women's achievements, resilience, and contributions to society, saw widespread participation from communities, organisations, and leaders. CM Nitish Kumar extended warm greetings to women across the state and the country.

In his message on X, he highlighted the pivotal role women play in the progress of any state or nation. “The contribution of women is crucial in the development of any state or country. The state govt is striving for the empowerment of women, as well as their safety, education, and social and economic development. On this occasion, all of us should resolve to always remain committed to the upliftment of women, so that their social and economic development can take place and they can be provided with a safe and better environment,” the CM posted.


From the private sector to govt departments, the women employees were given special treatment on this occasion.

Traffic Police: Superintendent of police (traffic), Patna, Sagar Kumar held a special interaction programme with all women police officers and personnel deployed in traffic management. During the event, the SP praised the dedication of these women officers, who performed their duties with unwavering vigilance in challenging conditions on the roads. Essential guidelines were provided to ensure smooth and safe traffic flow, and the women personnel were motivated for even better performance.

The SP also honoured the women police officers and staff deployed on Patna's streets by presenting them with appreciation certificates for their outstanding service. “Whether under the scorching sun or pouring rain, the invaluable contribution of Patna's women traffic police in maintaining seamless traffic is truly unmatched,” the SP said.

Power Holding: In Bihar, several grid substations are pioneering examples of women-led operations, setting a valuable precedent. Notable among them are Karbigahiya and Digha substations in Patna, Chandauti in Gaya, and Sabour in Bhagalpur, which are fully managed by women—from engineers and technicians to security personnel.

Karbigahiya grid substation stands out as Bihar's first all-women-operated facility. Here, a team of 11 women works round-the-clock shifts, fearlessly handling 33,000-volt hazards to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply to households across the city.

Transport Service: In a remarkable tale of resilience, Anita (23) and Gayatri Kumari (23) from Bihar’s Musahar community are breaking stereotypes by driving pink buses in Patna, thanks to the guidance of activist Sudha Varghese, fondly called Sudha Didi. Anita, from Punpun, trained in Aurangabad, progressing from a small vehicle licence to a bus licence. Despite taunts like “You can’t even ride a bicycle,” she drove a bus used in a Republic Day tableau at Gandhi Maidan alongside ministers.

Supported by her in-laws and husband after her 2021 marriage, Anita encourages girls to chase their dreams fearlessly. Gayatri, too, faced scepticism about her strength and ability to drive due to her slender frame. Yet, with unwavering family support, she persevered. Her father, a labourer earning Rs 400 daily, takes pride in her achievements. Both women endured taunts—villagers and peers mocked them, predicting failure or accidents—but remained undeterred.

State Women’s Commission: Bihar State Women's Commission celebrated by releasing balloons from its office premises, symbolising the soaring confidence and limitless aspirations of Bihar's women. Chairperson Apsara addressed the gathering, stating that numerous initiatives are underway to empower women in the state. “Women's participation in Bihar's economy is growing rapidly, and through education and skill development, they are carving new paths of self-confidence,” she said. The event was attended by commission members Sajal Jha, Sheela Tudu, and Rashmi Rekha Sinha.