Carrying Assault Rifles In Minus 20 Degrees, BSF's Women Warriors To Guard Indian Borders For First Time

For the first time in history, the Border Security Force (BSF) has deployed its women soldiers at the front posts on the strategically important Line of Control (LoC). Holding assault rifles and guarding the country at 14,000 feet from sea level, with mercury dipping as low as -20 degrees Celsius, these fierce warriors embody the very definition of 'bravery.' The first such contingent is posted at the Gurez sector of Bandipora district in Northern Kashmir.

Women soldiers at LoC for the first time

Although female soldiers of BSF have long been guarding India's international border in various areas, the latest posting on the Line of Actual Control marks a first. The inclusion of women at the constable rank within BSF started approximately 16 years ago, with the groundbreaking development of women BSF personnel being stationed at the international border in 2009.

BSF has recently deployed a unit from its Mahila Corps in the Gurez sector of the Bandipora district in North Kashmir. The Gurez sector on the LoC has numerous forward posts managed by BSF, and now, there is also the presence of female personnel at these strategic positions, adding to the workforce, reported Jagran.com.

A proud lot

These women warriors are, however, excited and immensely proud about the new task assigned to them. Trained in border patrol, night surveillance, and combat roles, some of the soldiers shared their feelings with the media.

"It's the first group of women deputed on the Line of Control. We are standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our male colleagues to protect the LoC. We are extremely proud of the fact that we are the first female group deputed to protect the borders," said Mangal Dongre, a BSF soldier.

Robust measures to combat chilling cold

Dongre further elaborated on the special training and tactical gear provided to them by the force to carry out their duties efficiently.

"We received special training and were provided with the best equipment and gear. We have special snow shoes, and jackets to protect us from the cold at high altitudes. We also trained with doctors who guided us about living in such extreme weather. We were given special arms training as well. We were specially trained in patrolling, ambush, as well as night patrolling," she added.