India is set to witness a historic moment at the Republic Day Parade 2026 as Assistant Commandant Simran Bala will lead an all-male CRPF contingent on Kartavya Path in New Delhi. At just 26 years old, the Jammu and Kashmir native will become the first woman officer to command a parade unit consisting entirely of male personnel, marking a significant milestone for gender representation in India’s paramilitary forces. Her leadership reflects the growing role of women in the country’s security services and highlights India’s commitment to gender equality in defense sectors.
Simran Bala hails from Nowshera in Rajouri district and joined the Central Reserve Police Force after clearing the UPSC CAPF examination. She has been recognized as a top performer during her training and has served in critical anti-insurgency operations in Chhattisgarh. Her role in the Republic Day Parade is expected to inspire young women across the nation to pursue careers in uniformed services and leadership positions.
Read more at Anandabazar Patrika Epaper