Simran Bala to Lead All-Male CRPF Contingent at Republic Day Parade 2026

Simran Bala, a 26-year-old assistant commander from Jammu and Kashmir's Rajouri district, will create history at the 77th Republic Day parade by becoming the first woman to lead an all-male CRPF contingent on Kartavya Path in New Delhi.

She will command a unit of more than 140 male Central Reserve Police Force personnel in the prestigious parade on January 26.

Inspired by Border Experiences

Bala's journey to this historic moment has been shaped by personal experiences of conflict. Having witnessed cross-border firing at the India-Pakistan border in Jammu and Kashmir, she was inspired to serve the nation in uniform.

The assistant commander's determination to join the armed forces stems from growing up in a border region where security challenges are part of daily life.

Remarkable Academic Achievement

Simran Bala cleared the UPSC Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) assistant commander examination in 2023, securing an All India Rank of 82 among 151 successful candidates. Her achievement made her the first woman from Jammu and Kashmir to qualify in that year's examination.

After completing her training in Gurugram, she joined the CRPF in April 2025. Her first posting was at Chhattisgarh's Bastariya Battalion, known for operating in challenging Naxal-affected regions.

Breaking Barriers

Bala's appointment to lead the all-male contingent represents a significant milestone for gender equality in India's paramilitary forces. The moment underscores the expanding roles women are assuming in the country's security apparatus.

Her march down Kartavya Path will stand as a symbol of pride and progress for women in uniform across India.