Meet Tungam Riba, Arunachal Pradesh's First Woman Bus Conductor

Ditching the traditional career path, Tungam Riba chose to become a bus conductor and made history as the first woman to do so in Arunachal Pradesh. Belonging to the Old Dari Village in the Leparada district, the young trailblazer holds a bachelor's degree in Arts. However, she had her eyes set on a different trajectory. Riba applied for the male-dominated position of bus conductor with the Arunachal Pradesh University (APU) in Pasighat. Despite the challenges, she persevered and secured the role of a contingent staff member.

First Female Bus Conductor Of Arunachal Pradesh

India Today NE reported that Tungam Riba received laurels from prominent personalities including Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu; Lok Sabha MP from Arunachal East, Tapir Gao; BJP MLA candidate from Basar Assembly constituency Smty Nyabi Jini Dirchi, and more.

People have expressed admiration and appreciation for Riba's historic accomplishment of breaking gender barriers and pursuing a career that she is truly passionate about instead of sticking to norms. She symbolises irreplaceable zeal and enthusiasm that could be a source of inspiration to many.

Similar Story: Meet Assam's First Female Bus Conductor, Monica Bezbaruah

Like Riba, Monica Bezbaruah from Assam's Nalbari district too challenged the odds to become the first female bus conductor in the state. According to India Today NE, she works with the Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC). Her goal is to create a space for women in the workforce to be truly seen and respected.

She told the news outlet in a March 2024 interview, "As an Assamese girl, I want every young girl to break the stereotypes and be proud of their work. It is so good to see because the public is so supportive." With the pursuit of an unconventional career, Bezbaruah personifies relentlessness and self-confidence. 

While her journey to working in a male-dominated field was no cakewalk, her positive spirit and belief in herself helped her overcome any obstacles that came in the way of her independence. She said, "The only limits that exist are the ones we place on ourselves. Dare to dream, and you will achieve greatness."

Riba and Bezbaruah reflect the extraordinary power of women's determination and courage to dream beyond conventional paths. Their stories also highlight the importance of fostering an inclusive environment for women in the workforce. By carving a path for their careers, Riba and Bezbaruah have led the way for change.