“The feeling of walking on Kartavya Path fills you with pride. It was my honour to be able to lead the contingent. The sound of claps and cheering from lakhs of people made me overjoyed”.
– Poonam Gupta, Assistant Commandant, CRPF
The women’s contingent of CRPF marching became the biggest talking point during the 74th Republic Day celebrations on Kartavya Path in Delhi. The force attracted special attention as it has the distinction of being the first women armed police battalion in the world.This all women contingent of CRPF was led by Assistant Commandant Poonam Gupta. After the parade everyone was very curious to know about AC Gupta who impressed everyone with her troops.
Poonam Gupta secured All India Rank 81 in CAPF AC Exam. When our team asked her to share about her family background, education and her journey to join CAPFs, what inspired you to join the army and why? Then she replied with full of energy;
“We are a family of 4. My father and mother work in the government sector and my younger brother is a doctor. I have completed B.Sc. in Mathematics, M.A. in English Literature and B.Ed. I appeared for the UPSC CAPF Exam in 2018 and secured All India Rank 81. My love for the uniform inspired me to join the forces. Currently I am posted in Gaya, Bihar which is the Naxal affected area. There is a threat of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) in Chakrabandha Forest Area. With proper training and determination, one can become ready to face any challenge. This year’s Republic Day parade was unique in terms that an all female contingent of CRPF marched on Kartavya Path and won the hearts of the entire nation. There was a lot of struggle and sacrifice behind it. Regular rehearsals of 8 to 9 hours every day for more than 45 days made it possible for us to win both the trophies of Best Marching Contingent in Judges Choice as well as Popular Choice. I feel that it is my responsibility to perform best for my force whenever I get the opportunity. I am very happy that I was able to do that”, said Poonam Gupta.
Her message to all the aspirants is, “To keep on walking towards your goal. If your efforts are sincere & in the right direction, nothing can stop you from achieving it.”
