New Delhi: On the 75th Republic Day, India held a magnificent parade which celebrated both the remarkable power of women and the country's advancements in the field of defence technology.
In a poignant moment, scientist Sunita Jena led a captivating tableaux by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), symbolizing the crucial contribution of women in strengthening national security through cutting-edge technologies.
The grand parade held under the banners of "Viksit Bharat" (Developed India) and "Bharat-Loktantra ki Matruka" (Mother of Indian Democracy) found perfect harmony with a broader message of championing democratic values and empowering women.
This overarching theme resonated deeply with the spirit of the event, highlighting the interconnectedness of a flourishing democracy and the active participation of women in its progress. It emphasized that India's development journey is inextricably linked to upholding democratic ideals and ensuring equal opportunities for all, especially women.
DRDO's presentation went beyond simply unveiling its newest defence technologies. It also shone a spotlight on the critical role women play in the research and development of these advancements. For example, Indian women scientists, including P Laxmi Madhavi, J Sujana Choudhary, and A Bhuvaneswari, have made a significant breakthrough by developing the Indigenous Liquid Ramjet Technology.
This technology is considered groundbreaking due to its potential applications and advancements in the field. Their achievement represents a major step forward for India's scientific and technological capabilities.
The world also observed Nari Shakti or women’s empowerment in the Indian armed forces during the Republic Day parade on 26 January. For the first time, an all-women tri-service contingent marched through the Kartavya Path.
The contingent belonged to all the five pillars of Armed Forces Medical Services: Army, Navy, Airforce, Army Dental Corpses and Military Nursing Services. Speaking to reporters of the National TV service Doordarshan, Major Khullar from the MNS was delighted that the opportunity to march at the Republic Day parade helped the participants discover their ability to work in tandem beyond the hospital, showcasing the increasing synergy among the Indian armed Forces. There was a contingent of women also from the Military Police of the Army, Navy and then Airforce.
Despite the differences in drills and procedures, they marched together as one contingent.
The parade was a powerful demonstration of the diverse and crucial roles women play in defending the nation. Female officers proudly showcased their expertise, like women leading the display of the Swathi radar and the Pinaka rocket system. The highlight was Squadron Leader Rashmi Thakur who along with her team, commanded the impressive 144-member Indian Air Force contingent.
Among the highlights were the CRPF's women's band contingent and the Armed Forces Medical Services, both demonstrating excellence in their respective fields. Additionally, the "Vande Bharatam" segment was a stunning display of unity and cultural richness. It blended traditional and modern dance styles, using masks symbolically to captivate the audience and resonate with the parade's theme of cultural achievement.
This segment served as a powerful tribute to India's diverse heritage and the inspiring role women play in its continued accomplishments.
The grand parade witnessed yet another boost to women’s empowerment when Major Divya Tyagi led a contingent of the Bombay Sappers, an esteemed unit established in 1820. Their long and distinguished history, marked by 34 Battle Honours and 25 Theatre Honours, is a testament to their crucial role in building the nation.
The Delhi police made history by having an all-woman marching contingent in their parade. This move was celebrated by Special Commissioner Robin Hibu, who highlighted the importance of showcasing female representation within the force.
Additionally, Constable Ruyangunuo Kense's leadership role in the women's pipe band further emphasized the capabilities and contributions of women across various segments of the police force. This all-female contingent served as a powerful symbol of inclusivity and women's empowerment within the organization.
For centuries, women in India have contributed to the armed forces. While 2023 celebrated 30 years of female officers serving in the army, their involvement stretches back a hundred years. The past decade has seen remarkable progress towards gender parity in defence roles. Women have long been crucial in medical units and peacekeeping missions, but their recent inclusion in combat and support positions signifies a new era of empowered female soldiers across all three branches of the Indian Armed Forces.
The history of women in the Indian Armed Forces dates back to 1888 with the establishment of the "Indian Military Nursing Service." These nurses played crucial roles during World War I. World War II saw further expansion through the Women's Auxiliary Corps, allowing women to serve in non-combatant capacities like communication, accounting, and administration.
Notably, despite being part of the British-run Indian Army, these women, unlike their European and American counterparts, were not granted the privilege of combat roles. In essence, the seeds of female participation in the Indian Armed Forces were sown during these wars, primarily in supportive roles.
Women played a significant role in espionage during World War II, defying traditional expectations. One such example is Noor Inayat Khan, a British spy of Indian origin, who achieved legendary status for her bravery and contributions.
While the British Indian Army restricted women to non-combatant roles, another movement offered different opportunities. Subhash Chandra Bose's Azad Hind Fauj, an Indian nationalist army, included the Rani of Jhansi Regiment, an all-women unit that actively fought alongside the Japanese in Burma. This signifies the diverse ways women contributed to the war effort, both behind enemy lines and on the battlefield.
While the Army Act of 1950 initially restricted women to specific roles, the Army Medical Corps paved the way for broader inclusion in 1958 by offering them regular commissions. A significant step forward came in 1992 with the Women Special Entry Scheme (WSES), allowing women officers to formally join the force. In 2019, further advancements were made with the grant of permanent commission in eight additional streams, expanding opportunities for women's service.
India's 75th Republic Day parade beautifully celebrated the exceptional strength of women and the nation's strides in defence technology. Under the banners of "Viksit Bharat" and "Bharat-Loktantra ki Matruka," the event harmoniously conveyed a broader message of championing democratic values and empowering women.
DRDO's presentation not only unveiled cutting-edge technologies but spotlighted women's critical role in research, exemplified by breakthroughs like the Indigenous Liquid Ramjet Technology.
The historic all-women tri-service contingent showcased Nari Shakti, emphasizing unity and synergy among Armed Forces. Female officers, led by Squadron Leader Rashmi Thakur, demonstrated diverse roles, while the CRPF's women's band and "Vande Bharatam" segment paid tribute to cultural richness.
Major Divya Tyagi's leadership in the Bombay Sappers and the Delhi police's historic all-woman marching procession underscored ongoing strides in women's empowerment. This grand event echoes a remarkable journey, highlighting India's commitment to inclusivity, democracy, and women's achievements in defence over the centuries.
