Delhi Police will showcase its first-ever all-women marching contingent at Republic Day parade, with majority of participants hailing from northeastern India
IPS officer Shweta K Sugathan, leading the contingent, reveals that about 80 per cent of the women in the team come from northeastern states like Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, and Assam. This reflects a conscious effort by Delhi Police to bridge the gap and promote diversity in its ranks.
Adding to the diversity, the women's pipe band, comprising 135 head constables and constables, will be led by Constable Ruyangunuo Kense. This marks a notable inclusion of women in traditionally male-dominated roles within the police force.
As Republic Day approaches, preparations for the all-women contingent are in full swing. Sugathan mentions that the team has been preparing for almost six months, with a focus on giving their best performance during the parade down the Kartavya Path on January 26.
Delhi Police has a recruitment policy aimed at including individuals from eight northeastern states, emphasizing a commitment to bridging the cultural and geographical gap between the police force and the people from the northeastern region.
Constable Ruchika, representing Manipur, expresses excitement and pride in being part of the contingent. She sees the parade as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and hopes the team will be recognized as the best contingent on Republic Day.
Delhi Police's marching contingent has participated in every Republic Day parade, having received the honour of being adjudged the best marching contingent 15 times, the last being in 2021. This underlines their consistent excellence in parade performances.
The Defence Ministry's directive to include women participants in contingents, bands, and tableaux during the Republic Day parade reflects a broader initiative to promote gender inclusion and diversity across various sections of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies.
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