The Army chief particularly praised Col Ponung Doming’s achievements as CO of a high-altitude Border Task Force. (File photo)
New Delhi: Supporting gender integration in the armed forces, the Indian Army chief, General Upendra Dwivedi, has robustly defended women officers’ capabilities in command positions, effectively addressing concerns raised in a leaked internal communication from last October. Speaking at his inaugural news conference as Army chief, Gen Dwivedi highlighted the exemplary performance of women officers, drawing an empowering parallel to the Hindu deity “Maa Kali” – a symbol of strength.
The Army chief’s statements come in response to a controversial letter penned by Lieutenant General Rajeev Puri, commander of the Panagarh-based 17 Corps, regarding “command by women officers”. While acknowledging Lt Gen Puri’s right to express his views through internal channels, Gen Dwivedi emphasized that a court of inquiry has been initiated to investigate the letter’s unauthorized disclosure.
Presenting compelling evidence of women officers’ competence, Gen Dwivedi cited impressive statistics: 115 women officers currently hold command positions, with 18 more prepared to assume leadership roles. He specifically highlighted Colonel Ponung Doming’s remarkable achievements, who commands the world’s highest Border Task Force above 15,000 feet in the northern sector. Her exemplary service in challenging terrains, including Demchok and Umling-la, serves as a testament to women officers’ capabilities.
The Army chief’s vision for the future encompasses a gender-neutral approach, albeit with practical considerations for physical parameters and infrastructure requirements in field areas. Notably, regions like Sikkim and Mizoram are already implementing necessary adaptations to support this integration.
Further demonstrating the Army’s commitment to gender diversity, Gen Dwivedi noted that approximately 16 women officers are currently pursuing Staff College education, with several serving as pilots in the aviation branch. This progressive stance signals a transformative shift in one of the world’s largest military forces, setting a precedent for gender equality in defence services.
