Would you like to tell us something about yourself, about how you became the inspiring woman you are today?
I come from a Bengali middle class but culturally sound family, where along with the formal education I have been encouraged to participate in various cultural activities…as every girls of our surroundings do…i was not an exceptional in that respect. I used to learn drawing, recitation, dancing…like everyone and won several prizes too! But one thing I must say…my parents, specially my mother, always emphasized one thing…do whatever you wish…but with dignity…and try to break the conventional so called women’s world…or women’s periphery! Even from my school days, I was taught that I am free to choose any carrier option…even if it is daring and risky…my family would be with me always…to encourage me…to support me…and to motivate me. That’s the greatest strength I possess throughout my journey…I am really thankful to God for this! After completing Master in Botany, I initially thought to engage myself in further studies…or some research work…but after few days, I realized that’s not my cup of tea… instead I tried to prepare myself for competitive examination…so that I can engage myself for the benefit of others. During this period, AAI published their advertisement…after reading this, I was pretty excited… dealing with fire in airport… isn’t it very interesting…very challenging?? So without having a second thought, I applied…and rest of the journey is a pure bliss!!
What is the feeling to be the 1st women fire fighter for Airports?
I think we should not discriminate between women and men…at the end of the day the same dedication and determination that matters most, so It has been an enriching experience and also a matter of great pride to be a part of Airport fire service as a firefighter. It’s the zeal that matters most .In other words when you fight with the fire, literary or metaphorically something can destroy you, so you have to be practical, smart, tactful, physically and mentally fit and cautious and I think airport fire service gives the right opportunity to have a meaningful career for the youth of the country, where you can get a chance to rescue the people in need and to save lives a many.
What Inspired you to choose this career path of Firefighting?
Since my childhood I wanted to do something different which can bring a positive change in the society, though I completed my formal education by doing masters in botany but had a thought of doing something out of the box, something unconventional, something different and challenging. My parents always said I could do anything I desire, they encouraged me to hear the voice of my own soul. After masters I was talking preparation for government services, and when I saw this advertisement in the paper I was very much sure that this is it, so I applied and today am standing here as a successful Firefighter with flying colors.
What is your role and responsibilities and your job profile at your work?
I am posted in Fire Service Training Center Kolkata, Airports Authority of India. My job role teach me responsibility, knowlegde and discipline. I share it to future fire fighters. I am one and the first female trainer. Through very hard training, a young blood is transformed into a fire fighter. My first task is to create a physical and mentaly fit fighter with tough training. Then they have different classes regarding drill exercises and fire extinguishing technique. And in the end they became professional fire fighters.
Without these, I have to be prepared for any difficult situations. As a trained fire fighter, I fight shoulder to shoulder during any hazardous situation at the airport.
firefighter never off duty, he or she ready for 24×7.
What would you want to be if not a firefighter?
from my childhood I always interested in science, as I said before that I did masters in Botany..I would love to do some research work regarding my subject ..as well as I would love to do some social activities..to Make this world more positive and beautiful…which i can do obviously after my job.
And finally, any message for the women who want to follow your footsteps and choose the career/field you are in?
I always believed that the hidden meaning of the word “Impossible” is ‘ I am possible’, with the same believe I applied for this role. so i think there is nothing that we can’t do, only this necessary is to dream and focus in our goal and we have to put all our dedication and determination towards it. I want to encourage other girls, each and every girl has to stand survive, she has to make it beautiful not only for herself but also for the rest so each and every girl is a fighter. I believe that woman movement is not just a battle is should be attempt ‘ shoulder to shoulder’ – with men in their own right.
