International Women's Day: BRO breaks gender barriers; women officers assume key command roles

International Women's Day: In a groundbreaking move, the Border Roads Organization (BRO) has made history by appointing women officers to key command positions, marking a significant stride in the organisation's evolution. This shift towards gender inclusivity, initiated two decades ago with women officers primarily in staff appointments, reached a milestone on March 8, 2021, with a historic decision by the Director General of Border Roads (DGBR) opening the doors for women officers to take on frontline roles. This move aligns with the government's 'Naari Sashaktikaran' theme, emphasising women's empowerment.

According to an official release, the trailblazer in this movement was Vaishali S Hiwase, appointed as the Officer Commanding (OC) of a Road Construction Company (RCC) on April 28, 2021. Hiwase took charge of one of the most challenging roads in BRO, connecting Munshiyari to Milam Glacier in Uttarakhand.

Following this groundbreaking appointment, Obin Taki assumed command of an RCC in the inhospitable Siang valley of Arunachal Pradesh. Major Aaina Rana led an all-women RCC at Pipalkoti in Chamoli district, overseeing the development of roads up to the Mana pass, the second-highest pass in the country. The RCC achieved remarkable success under her dynamic leadership.

In an exceptional achievement, Colonel Navneet Duggal became the first EME officer to command a Field Workshop in the Kashmir valley, providing technical support to road construction activities in a challenging location. Lt Col Snigdha Sharma made history as the first woman officer to head the Legal Cell in BRO, managing over 700 court cases.

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Continuing the momentum, Col Archana Sood assumed command of a Task Force at Zero in Arunachal Pradesh in February 2023, becoming the first woman officer to lead a Task Force in BRO. Col Ponung Doming followed suit, heading a Task Force at Hanle, Ladakh, tasked with strategic BRO projects, including the construction of the world's highest road at 19,400 feet in the Chumar sector.

The progress in gender inclusivity within BRO aligns with its firm belief that women are integral to the nation-building process. The organization emphasizes a multi-faceted approach to women empowerment, promoting diverse employment roles, a gender-neutral environment, access to healthcare, adventure opportunities, and holistic development.

In the run-up to International Women's Day, this transformation in the organisation reflects a commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment, breaking traditional gender norms, and acknowledging the vital role women play in the nation's development.