From border town to Republic Day Parade: Simran Bala to make history as first woman to lead all-male CRPF contingent
New Delhi, January 21. Twenty-six-year-old Simran Bala, an Assistant Commandant in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), is set to create history by becoming the first woman officer to lead an all-male CRPF contingent at the 76th Republic Day parade.
A native of Nowshera in Jammu and Kashmir – a border village frequently affected by Pakistani shelling – Bala’s journey has been shaped by resilience and determination. Growing up amid cross-border firing and uncertainty, she turned a childhood marked by conflict into a path of service and leadership.
On the nation’s biggest ceremonial day, Bala will command a contingent of more than 140 male personnel during the march past, a landmark moment not only for the country’s largest paramilitary force but also for women serving in uniform across India.
Speaking to NDTV, Bala said the significance of the moment was beyond words.
“There’s a feeling like no other. Watching the parade unfold before me, with India Gate standing tall, and leading the force on such a day is both an honour and a huge responsibility,” she said.
Her achievement has drawn praise from across the region. Retired Army officer Captain Anil Gour described it as a defining moment, saying it symbolises a shift where long-standing barriers are breaking and new opportunities are opening for women in the armed forces.
In the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch, Bala’s feat has sparked inspiration among young girls.
“We also want to wear the uniform and serve Mother India, just like Simran,” said Geeta Rani from Rajouri, reflecting a growing sense of aspiration.
Simran Bala is also the first woman from her district to join the CRPF as an officer. She cleared the UPSC Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) examination on her first attempt, securing the 82nd All India Rank among 151 selected candidates while still pursuing her college studies. In May 2023, she was the only woman candidate from Jammu and Kashmir to qualify for the exam, further underlining the significance of her achievement.
