PANAJI
Disha Nayak, a dedicated firefighter in the Aerodrome Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) unit of Manohar International Airport (MIA), has broken gender norms by becoming India's first certified woman firefighter to operate a Crash Fire Tender.
Nayak's journey is a testament to her unwavering determination and extensive training, embodying the spirit of empowerment and equal opportunity, stated a press release by the GMR Goa International Airport Limited (GGIAL)
Hailing from Goa, Disha Nayak embarked on her ground-breaking journey when she applied for a position in the Airport Rescue & Firefighting department at MIA in November 2021.
Her relentless dedication enabled her to clear all prerequisites, and she officially joined the department on July 1, 2022, marking her as the first certified lady firefighter from Goa.
Nayak's path was challenging but transformative. After a few months, during the course of her employment at MIA, she expressed her interest to operate the Crash Fire Tender specially designed for aircraft rescue and fire fighting.
She underwent six months of rigorous external training at Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, equipping her with the skills and knowledge necessary for the demanding role of a CFT operator. Marking her as India's first certified woman firefighter to operate a Crash Fire Tender.
“GGIAL is committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where diversity is celebrated. With women comprising approximately 20 percent of its workforce, GGIAL is dedicated to maintaining gender diversity and ensuring equal growth opportunities for all employees,” stated GGIAL.
In alignment with this commitment, GGIAL encouraged Nayak to express her interest in operating the Crash Fire Tender.
Recognising her exceptional performance and passion, GGIAL facilitated her participation in defensive driving training in Namakkal, Tamil Nadu, followed by specialised training on the Rosenbauer Crash Fire Tender.
Upon completing her comprehensive training, Nayak faced evaluation by a special board of experts who assessed her driving and operational skills. Her exemplary performance resulted in her certification as the nation's first lady firefighter authorised to operate the Crash Fire Tender, specially designed for aircraft rescue and firefighting.
“Disha Nayak's historic achievement marks a significant milestone in airport firefighting. It reflects her personal determination and GGIAL's commitment to diversity and empowerment. This accomplishment exemplifies the breaking of barriers and the creation of equal opportunities in the field of airport firefighting,” stated GGIAL.
R V Sheshan, CEO of GGIAL, said: “GGIAL is committed to encouraging and enhancing the talent of its employees. We believe in creating a culture of learning that helps our employees flourish and ensures that they stay ahead in the rapidly changing business environment. Women constitute around 20 percent of GGIAL's workforce, and we are dedicated to maintaining gender diversity and providing equal growth opportunities.”
