The Business Bytes
Bhubaneswar, November 9, 2024 (TBB Bureau): The Girls in Aviation Day 2024, celebrated at Rama Devi Women’s University in Bhubaneswar, inspired young women to envision a future in aviation. This impactful event, organized by the Odisha Commerce and Transport Department in partnership with Women in Aviation India (WAI), was themed “Empowering Dreams to Soar.” It showcased the state’s commitment to skill development, industry insight, and gender equality in aviation — a sector traditionally dominated by men.
Bibhuti Bhushan Jena, Odisha’s Minister of Commerce, Transport, Steel, and Mines, highlighted the state’s dedication to increasing female representation in aviation to 50%, emphasizing Odisha’s progressive stance on breaking gender stereotypes.
State Commerce and Transport Department Principal Secretary, Usha Padhee, formally launched a Career Job Booklet during the event, emphasizing that “for aviation, the sky is not the limit but just a beginning.” Her words resonated strongly, urging attendees to explore the endless potential of aviation careers.
Rashmita Panda, addressing the gathering, shared initiatives focused on equipping young women with the skills needed for aviation careers. WAI President Radha Bhatia echoed this empowerment in her speech, passionately encouraging girls to embrace opportunities in aviation: “Chu lengi aasmaan bharat ki betiyaan!” (India’s daughters will reach the skies!)
The event also offered interactive career guidance sessions led by industry professionals Sana Mudeer, Jasmine Parichha, and Sonia Kapila, who provided essential insights into skill requirements and pathways within the aviation industry. A spirited Q&A session allowed students to seek guidance directly from these experts, while an essay competition on the theme “Empowering Dreams to Soar” spurred creative thoughts on the future of women in aviation. Winners of the competition will be honored by the Union Minister for Civil Aviation, underscoring the significance of this initiative.
Odisha’s forward-thinking efforts continue with the soon-to-be-established Birasal Aviation Center (BPAC), a Centre of Excellence designed for comprehensive aviation training. This promising development aims to solidify Odisha’s role as a leader in fostering skill-based education and gender diversity in aviation.
Girls in Aviation Day 2024 not only illuminated career possibilities but also set the stage for a transformative shift in aviation, where young women are encouraged to dream big and soar high.
