Hailing from Maoist-affected Malkangiri district of Odisha, a 27-year-old tribal woman has become the first tribal from the state to achieve the feat of becoming a commercial pilot for an airline, reports Hindustan Times.

Anupriya Madhumita Lakra, daughter of a police constable in Malkangiri district, will join the Indigo Airlines as a co-pilot sometime later this month.

Her father Mariniyas Lakra, a police constable in Malkangiri, and mother Jimaj Yashmin Lakra said that their daughter has not only made the family proud but also the entire state.

“Though it was difficult for me to fund her pilot training, I took loans and got help from relatives. I always ensured that my daughter gets an education in the field she wanted to,” Anupriya’s father Mariniyas Lakra was quoted in the report as saying.

Her mother said that they never let their economic conditions comes in the way of their daughter’s dreams.

“We are happy that she has become what she always dreamt of. I want my daughter to be a source of inspiration for all girls. I urge all parents to support their daughters,” said Jimaj.

Congratulating Lakra on her success, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik said, “I am happy with her achievement. She will be a role model for several girls,”

According to tribal leader Niranjan Bisi, Lakra, an Oraon tribeswoman, was not only the first tribal woman from Malkangiri district, but also from the state to become a commercial pilot.

“In a district that is yet to see a railway line, it is a matter of pride for tribals there that a local woman will now fly a plane,” said Bisi.

Anupriya Lakra

Get Swarajya in your inbox.