In a significant milestone for women’s empowerment in Punjab’s defence sector, two exceptional cadets from the Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute for Girls in SAS Nagar have earned their place in the prestigious Air Force Academy, Dundigal. Starting January 2025, Lady Cadets Charanpreet Kaur and Mahak will undergo pre-commission training, marking a proud moment for their families and the community.
Lady Cadet Charanpreet Kaur, hailing from Kurali, is the daughter of S. Harminder Singh Banwait, a dedicated driver in a private company. Demonstrating outstanding academic and leadership qualities, Charanpreet achieved an All India Rank (AIR) of 4 among 192 women, securing her position at the top of the merit list. Her fellow cadet, Mahak, daughter of Sh. Anil Kumar Dahiya, a government teacher residing in SAS Nagar, impressed with an AIR of 23, earning her a well-deserved spot in the elite training program.
Punjab’s Minister for Employment Generation, Skill Development and Training, Mr. Aman Arora, extended his heartfelt congratulations to the young women. “Their remarkable achievements are a testament to their dedication and will undoubtedly inspire countless other girls across Punjab to pursue careers in the defence services,” Arora remarked. He highlighted the government’s commitment to fostering such talents, noting the establishment of the NDA Preparatory Wing for Girls at Mai Bhago AFPI under the leadership of Chief Minister S. Bhagwant Singh Mann’s administration last year.
The initiative has already borne fruit, with four cadets from the institute successfully clearing the NDA entrance exam and advancing to the Services Selection Board (SSB) screening. This progress underscores the effectiveness of the program in nurturing future female officers.
Major General Jasbir Singh Sandhu, AVSM (Retd.), Director of Mai Bhago AFPI, expressed immense pride in the cadets’ accomplishments. “The selection of Charanpreet and Mahak for the Air Force Academy is a significant achievement for our institute and the state. It reinforces our mission to empower more girls to join the armed forces and serve the nation with honor,” Sandhu stated. He also conveyed his best wishes to the cadets, anticipating a bright and impactful career for them in the Indian Air Force.
The success of Charanpreet Kaur and Mahak not only highlights their individual excellence but also represents a broader movement towards gender inclusivity in India’s defence forces. As Punjab continues to champion such initiatives, the state stands as a beacon of progress, encouraging young women to aspire to roles that have traditionally been male-dominated.
With their selection, these young women pave the way for future generations, embodying the spirit of dedication and resilience. Their journey serves as an inspiring example of what can be achieved with support, opportunity, and unwavering determination.
