International Firefighters’ Day (IFFD) is a time where the world’s community can recognize and honour the sacrifices that firefighters make to ensure that their communities and environment are as safe as possible. It is also a day in which current and past firefighters can be thanked for their contributions. International Firefighters’ Day is observed each year on 4th May. On this date, you are invited to know about India’s first woman firefighter.

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In a country where women are worshipped but tortured behind the doors, Harshini Kanhekar is an inspiration. She is the first woman firefighter in the history of India. As a young girl, she always dreamt of joining the armed forces. She studied in a girl school in the city of Nagpur. She was not a bright student in school and she admitted it wholeheartedly. However, she was always up for extra-curricular activities. Some people are born to do greater things like saving lives and changing perceptions. Harshini Kanhekar is one of those women, who inspire us to chase our dreams and be fearless.

After graduating from NFSC, Harshini joined the firefighter services at the age of 26. She was selected and designated as a fire engineer at the Oil and Natural Gas Commission (ONGC). Before joining ONGC, Harshini helped douse several big fires in Delhi and Kolkata. Her longest operation was in Delhi when a shoe factory caught fire, and she, as part of her team, had to fight the fire for six hours at a stretch. It may seem like a simple job but it is not. It requires a lot of strength to hold the fire hose and save lives. Harshini is the first woman to have got admission in National Fire Service College in Nagpur. It was a historic and proud moment for her parents!

Harshini is an inspiration for all the women in India and she will never be forgotten. At the age of 37, women are told to stay home and look after children and the daily chores. There is no harm in that! However, that should not stop you from dreaming big and chasing your dreams. Harshini is a beautiful lady and she has inspired many women. She is the first women to become a firefighter in India. 

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