In a major boost for Punjab, two cadets from Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute (AFPI) for Girls in Mohali have secured top ranks in national-level defence entrance merit lists. Mehakpreet Kaur, daughter of a farmer from Ropar district, has secured All India Rank (AIR) 1 in the Air Force Academy (AFA) merit list, while fellow cadet Komalpreet Kaur has secured AIR 18 for admission to the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Khadakwasla.
Achievement for State-Run Institute
This feat marks another milestone for the state-run institute, which prepares young women for careers in the armed forces. Both cadets come from modest backgrounds and exemplify the institute’s motto, “Shubh Karman Te Kabhu Na Taraun”. The institute has consistently produced top-ranking candidates, and these latest results underscore its commitment to empowering women through defence careers.
Mehakpreet Kaur: Farmer's Daughter Tops Air Force Academy List
Mehakpreet Kaur, a resident of Paprali village in Rupnagar district, is the daughter of farmer Amarjit Singh and Rupinder Kaur. Her top rank in the AFA merit list is being seen as a significant achievement, especially given the limited intake for women in the services. The Air Force Academy, located in Dundigal, Hyderabad, is the premier training institution for air force officers. Securing AIR 1 in such a competitive examination reflects her dedication and hard work.
Komalpreet Kaur: Army Havildar's Daughter Earns NDA Entry
Komalpreet Kaur, who secured AIR 18 for NDA entry, hails from Shahura village in Amritsar district. She is the daughter of Havildar Gurmeet Singh of the Indian Army and Baljit Kaur, reflecting a legacy of service. The NDA, located in Khadakwasla, Pune, is the joint defence academy that trains cadets for all three branches of the armed forces. Her rank ensures her admission to this prestigious institution.
Institute Director's Perspective
AFPI director Maj Gen Jasbir Singh Sandhu (Retd) said securing AIR 1 in the AFA merit list was an extraordinary feat given the intense competition. He added that the achievements would inspire more young women in Punjab to pursue careers in the armed forces. The institute provides free coaching, accommodation, and training to girls from economically weaker backgrounds, focusing on physical fitness, academic excellence, and leadership skills.
Background of AFPI
Established by the Punjab government, Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute for Girls aims to prepare young women for entry into the armed forces. Named after the legendary Sikh warrior Mai Bhago, the institute has produced several successful candidates in the past. The recent success of Mehakpreet and Komalpreet highlights the institute's effectiveness in bridging the gender gap in defence services.
Impact on Women in Defence
These achievements are particularly significant in the context of the Indian armed forces' gradual opening of more roles to women. In recent years, women have been inducted into combat roles in the army, air force, and navy. The success of these two cadets from rural backgrounds demonstrates that talent and determination can overcome socio-economic barriers. It also serves as a powerful message to families in Punjab and across India that daughters can achieve the highest honours in defence careers.
Both cadets have expressed gratitude to their families and the institute for their support. They aim to serve the nation with honour and inspire other girls to follow their dreams. The institute plans to celebrate their achievement and use it as a case study to motivate future batches.
