How Army trailblazers inspired generations of women officers | India News
Chandigarh: On June 17, 1997, Ravinder Jeet Randhawa’s life fell apart – her husband, Major Sukhwinder Jeet Singh Randhawa (posthumous Kirti Chakra), sacrificed his life fighting terrorists in Kashmir. Just 15 months later, she graduated from the Officers’ Training Academy in Chennai as a lieutenant, dressed in olive green like her husband.Lt. Col. Randhawa (Retd.) became India’s first brave woman (war widow) as an officer. She has served for 24 years and continues to inspire women to join the military.On the eve of International Women’s Day, TOI spoke to her and another trailblazer, Major Priya Jhingan (retd), who has the pride of being Lady Cadet 001. Both rewrote history in the armed forces. Their journey broke down barriers and helped open doors for women across the stream to enter the military.
A promise has been keptAfter a deep personal loss Lt. Col. Randhawa’s decision to join the army broke institutional barriers, relaxing the army’s age and marital status restrictions: “After a loss like ours, the ground goes away from under your feet. I was meant to be a commissioned officer.”She said her upbringing in Punjab, with deep respect for soldiers and her desire to honor her husband’s legacy strengthened her resolve. “I derive immense strength from my mother.”He recalled how former Army Chief General VP Malik and his wife Dr Ranjana Malik were instrumental in donating his olive green. It was only after his request to General Malik, who wrote to the government, that the army opened the door for Veer Naris. “Indian Armed Forces It became the first in the world to take such a step. It reflects the spirit of representation and empowerment of women.”Her message to women: “Life can push you to unimaginable extremes. But if you believe in yourself, no challenge is insurmountable.”in letter and spiritMajor Jhingan’s journey in the army began with a simple but daring job. As a schoolgirl, she wrote to then Army Chief General Sunith Francis Rodrigues, urging him to allow women to join the army.“In class 10, I saw an advertisement inviting young men to join the army. I realized that I met every qualification mentioned, except one: I was not a ‘young man’.”His determination has paid off. In 1992, Jhingan joined the first batch of 25 women officers at OTA, Chennai, earning the distinction of Lady Cadet 001. “For me, it was never about being first. It was about making sure the door opened for more young women who dreamed of wearing the uniform,” she said. “I was not there to compete with men or to prove that I am better than men. I was there to serve the nation shoulder to shoulder with them.“
