Shompi Chakraborty Purkayastha/Kolkata

Fierce ocean waves, narrow river channels, and hostile currents—nothing could deter her indomitable resolve. Breaking the conventions of male-domination in certain professions, Reshma Niloufer Naha became the world’s first woman river pilot.

Reshma Niloufer Naha receiving the Nari Shakti Award from former President Ram Nath Kovind

Born into a modest family in Chennai, Reshma dreamt big from a young age.

A dedicated student, she pursued maritime studies after school at the prestigious Academy of Maritime Education and Training (AMET), Chennai.

After completing her education, her journey at sea began. From passenger vessels to container ships, she sailed across different parts of the world.

Each voyage strengthened her resolve and prepared her for the formidable challenges ahead.

Reshma Niloufer Naha 0n the Deck

After years of seafaring experience, Reshma underwent rigorous training at Kolkata Port Trust (then KoPT). The demanding training lasted for nearly six and a half years.

Finally, in 2018, she was appointed as a full-time maritime pilot at the Kolkata port. With this, a new chapter was written in history—Reshma Niloufer Naha emerged as the world’s first woman river pilot.

Reshma says, “A marine pilot’s responsibility is to safely guide ships into and out of the port. This job demands exceptional physical and mental strength. When you are the first, the challenge becomes even greater.”

In the early days, many doubted her abilities, with some believing she would quit the profession within months. Defying all skepticism, she continues to discharge her duties with unwavering commitment.

Reshma Niloufer Naha

Explaining the importance of a river pilot’s role, she notes, “We are local expert navigators associated with a specific port. Just as we understand ships, we also know every bend and channel of the port waters. A ship’s captain cannot be an expert in every port, which makes the role of a marine pilot crucial.”

Navigating rivers is far more challenging than sailing the open sea. Narrow waterways, shifting sandbanks, sharp turns, and dangerous currents mean constant risk. “A wrong decision made in a single second can lead to a major disaster,” Reshma explains. “That is why one must remain mentally alert at all times and be capable of taking swift decisions.”

Physical fitness is equally essential in this profession. Pilots must climb up and down rope ladders from pilot launches or small boats to large ships—a task requiring great strength and stamina. Long working hours, prolonged periods away from family, and a daily battle with turbulent waters have together shaped Reshma Niloufer Naha’s resilient character.

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As a symbol of women’s empowerment, she has been honoured with the Nari Shakti Puraskar. Yet, beyond awards, her greatest achievement lies in the inspiration she offers. By performing her duties with dedication, she is opening new pathways for countless young women—proving that with courage and the ability to dream, no sea is too deep and no river too narrow to hold a woman back.