In a momentous display of empowerment and cultural diversity, the Border Security Force (BSF) Mahila Brass Band, comprising three Subordinate Officers and 80 Other Ranks, marked its inaugural march on Kartavya Path during the 75th Republic Day celebrations. Commanded by Sub Inspector Shweta Singh, the band played the patriotic tune ‘Bharat Ke Jawan.’ The formation of the BSF Mahila Brass Band under Eastern and Western Commands aimed to promote and encourage the culture and advancement of young women in the force.
The significant milestone continued as the BSF Mahila Brass Band participated in the Beating Retreat Ceremony for the first time in January 2023 at Vijay Chowk, New Delhi. Following them was the women contingent of the Border Security Force, consisting of 144 Mahila Praharis and led by Assistant Commandant Monika Lakra.
The journey of women in the Border Security Force dates back to 2009 when Mahila Praharies were first inducted in constabulary ranks. The force opened its doors to Mahila officers in 2013, marking a significant stride in gender equality. By 2016, women became an integral part of all ranks within the Border Security Force, aligning with the government’s commitment to empower women in defense and central armed police forces.
The 75th Republic Day celebrations were inaugurated by President Droupadi Murmu at Kartavya Path. The BSF Mahila Brass Band’s remarkable performance and the women contingent’s parade added a unique and inspiring touch to the festivities.
President Murmu, upon her arrival, was received by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The ceremony included the unfurling of the national flag, the playing of the National Anthem, and a 21 Gun Salute. The President and the Chief Guest, French President Emmanuel Macron, were escorted by the elite ‘Rashtrapati Ke Angrakshak’ – the President’s Bodyguard, the seniormost regiment of the Indian Army, celebrating its 250th year of service.
Adding to the grandeur, the two Presidents arrived at Kartavya Path in the ‘Traditional Buggy,’ a tradition revived after 40 years, symbolizing the rich history and traditions of the Indian Republic Day celebrations.
In a parallel display of women’s prowess, the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) showcased their women band contingent led by Constable Sosa Alpaben. The band, comprising 100 women personnel, played the patriotic tune ‘Desh Ke Hum Hai Rakshak.’ Following the band was a Women’s contingent from CRPF, known as the ‘Peacekeepers of the Nation,’ led by Assistant Commandant Megha Nair from the 234th Battalion in Visakhapatnam.
CRPF holds the distinction of raising one of the world’s first women armed police battalions. Constable Kamlesh Kumari, a CRPF personnel, was posthumously conferred the Ashok Chakra, the highest peacetime award for gallantry, for her supreme sacrifice during the Parliament Attack.
The CRPF Women Contingent, consisting of 148 women from various units across the country, reflects the unity in diversity, representing a ‘mini India.’ The force’s rich history includes significant contributions to repelling Chinese aggression in Ladakh in 1959, repulsing a Pakistani Infantry Brigade in 1965, and displaying valor during various critical events in India’s history.
As the largest Para Military Force globally, with 246 battalions and over 3.24 lakh personnel, the CRPF continues to embody professionalism and sacrifice, contributing to national security and global peacekeeping missions. The Republic Day celebrations highlighted not only India’s military prowess but also the remarkable journey of women in these esteemed security forces.
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