As the first female officer to be operationally deployed at Kumar Post, Siachen Glacier, Captain Shiva Chouhan stormed a hitherto male-dominated bastion of the armed forces. An exemplary Indian Army officer hailing from the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers, she realised this milestone achievement on January 2, 2023.
Early Life
Born and raised in Rajasthan, Captain Chouhan exhibited unwavering determination and a fervent desire to serve her country from a young age. Her childhood aspirations took root when she faced adversity after her father's passing, instilling within her, a resolve to pursue a career in the Indian Armed Forces and leave a mark.
Having graduated with Honours from the Officers Training Academy in Chennai in May 2021, Chouhan was commissioned into the Engineer Regiment of the Indian Army as a Lieutenant. Her journey has been marked by sheer dedication and perseverance, exemplifying the spirit of determination that defines a true leader.
Eyes On The Goal
Amidst the towering peaks of the Karakoram range, Captain Chouhan's narrative took a remarkable turn during the scorching July of 2022, when she spearheaded the Sura Soi Cycling Expedition. Pedalling through the challenging terrain from the Siachen War Memorial to the revered Kargil War Memorial, she covered an impressive distance of 508 kilometers, symbolising both tribute and triumph on the occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas.
Undeterred by the arduous journey, Captain Chouhan embarked on an even more formidable mission. Leading the valiant men of the Sura Soi Engineer Regiment to the world's highest battlefield, Siachen Glacier, she embraced the challenges that lay ahead. Assigned to the Fire and Fury Corps of the Indian Army's Northern Command, her resolve was unwavering, setting the stage for an unprecedented chapter in her military career.
Her relentless pursuit of excellence led Captain Chouhan to qualify for specialised training at the Siachen Battle School in 2022. In an environment dominated by men, she stood as the lone woman, undaunted by the rigorous drills that included ice wall climbing, endurance training, avalanche and crevasse rescue, and survival strategies. Her perseverance is proof of her unyielding spirit and dedication to her calling.
The Glory
The culmination of her training was a watershed moment. On January 2, 2023, Captain Shiva Chouhan stood tall at Kumar Post, Siachen Glacier, leading a team of Sappers. The significance of the moment was profound, as she became the first woman officer to be operationally deployed at this high-altitude battleground. Her team, entrusted with critical combat engineering tasks, mirrored her determination and resolve.
The Fire and Fury Corps of the Indian Army proudly proclaimed her induction, heralding her triumph over challenges and breaking the glass ceiling.
Her journey is not merely about personal achievement; it symbolises a paradigm shift, showcasing the prowess and capability of women in roles traditionally dominated by men. Her name has become synonymous with courage, determination, and the unyielding spirit that defines a true leader in the annals of India's military legacy.
The challenges she confronted were formidable, yet Captain Chouhan navigated them with unmatched resilience and grit. Her induction at Kumar Post marked a monumental stride not only for her but also for aspiring women across the nation, exemplifying the indomitable strength and prowess of women in roles traditionally dominated by men.
The Defence Minister of India, Rajnath Singh, lauded Captain Shiva Chouhan's achievement, acknowledging her remarkable contribution to the armed forces. Her deployment symbolised the embodiment of India's ’Nari Shakti’, showcasing the strength and resilience of women in the country.
Captain Shiva Chouhan's journey epitomises courage, determination, and a relentless pursuit of excellence, underscoring the potential of women in the Armed Forces and setting an enduring example for future generations. Her historic feat not only broke the glass ceiling but also paved the way for a more inclusive and empowered military landscape in India.