Captain Geetika Koul becomes first woman army doctor deployed at Siachen

In a historic move, Captain Geetika Koul, a woman army doctor, has been deployed at Siachen, the world’s highest battlefield, marking a significant milestone for gender inclusivity in the Indian Army.

The announcement by the Leh-based Fire and Fury Corps on Tuesday highlighted Captain Geetika Koul’s achievement as the first woman medical officer to serve at Siachen. This follows her successful completion of induction training at Siachen Battle School, underscoring the army’s commitment to expanding opportunities for women in crucial roles.

The groundbreaking development follows the deployment of Captain Shiva Chouhan from the Corps of Engineers at Siachen almost a year ago in January 2023. Captain Chouhan’s entry marked the first time a woman officer was posted at the world’s highest and coldest battleground.

Soldiers assigned to Siachen endure a challenging three-month stint in the frozen landscape, where temperatures can plummet to an unforgiving minus 60 degrees. The inclusion of women in such vital positions signifies a departure from traditional roles, with women now assuming central roles on par with their male counterparts across various branches of the armed forces.

Women in uniform are making significant strides, with examples ranging from flying fighter planes to serving onboard warships. They are also taking on command roles, being inducted in the personnel below officer rank (PBOR) cadre, becoming eligible for permanent commission, and undergoing training at the premier National Defence Academy.

In his recent Navy Day address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the government’s commitment to strengthen “Nari Shakti” (women power) in the armed forces. He congratulated the navy on a landmark achievement — the appointment of Lieutenant Commander Prerna Deosthalee as the commanding officer of the fast-attack craft INS Trinkat.

The deployment of women in challenging and critical environments like Siachen underscores a broader cultural shift within the armed forces, breaking gender stereotypes and acknowledging the competence and capabilities of women in diverse military roles.

Captain Geetika Koul’s presence at Siachen reflects the Indian Army’s progressive stance towards gender inclusivity and serves as an inspiration for aspiring women in the armed forces. As the armed forces continue to evolve, embracing diversity and empowering women, the achievements of individuals like Captain Koul and Captain Chouhan mark significant milestones in the ongoing journey toward equality and inclusivity.

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