In a historic stride towards gender inclusivity and breaking traditional stereotypes, Suman Kumari has etched her name in the annals of the Border Security Force (BSF) as its first female sniper, have a look at her biography and family
Hailing from the Mandi district of Himachal Pradesh, the journey of Suman Kumari to this ground-breaking achievement is one of grit, determination, and unwavering resolve.
Who is Suman Kumar first BSF woman sniper, biography, age, family, parents, education, hometown birth place
In the sniper course, Suman Kumari was the only female among 56 men and the course is considered to be among the toughest trainings of the force.
The 28-year-old sub-inspector from the Punjab unit reached the milestone after completing an eight-week rigorous training at the Central Armament and Combat Skills School of Border Security Force, Indore and the woman from Tungal Valley of Mandi in Himachal Pradesh has also received the “Instructor Grade” after the completion of the training.
Among 56 men, she was the only woman who took a step forward and showed her bravery by taking the sniper training. In 2019, Suman opted for the exam, and the recruitment took place in BSF in 2021.
BSF CSWT INDORE on Saturday posted,”BSF is truly becoming an inclusive Force where #ladies are taking rapid strides everywhere. In a step in this direction, after rigorous training, #BSF has got the First #Mahila Sniper.”
Suman Kumari was raised in a modest household. Her father, Dinesh Kumar Thakur, is an electrical contractor, whereas her mother, Maya Devi, is a homemaker and one of her sisters, Sushma Thakur, is a doctor, while her brother, Vikrant Thakur, holds a degree in B.Tech. Electrical.
#BSF's first Female Sniper : Sub-inspector (SI) Suman Kumari pic.twitter.com/06N983bJrn
— News IADN (@NewsIADN) March 3, 2024
Suman Kumari’s introduction to the world of snipers came during her tenure leading a platoon in Punjab where she keenly observed the looming threat of cross-border sniper attacks. Recognizing the need for adept marksmanship skills to counter such threats, Suman fearlessly volunteered for the rigorous sniper course at the Central School of Weapons and Tactics (CSWT) in Indore.
Congratulations to @BSF_India for achieving a significant milestone with Suman Kumari becoming their first woman sniper!
Her success is a testament to the power of women and the value of diversity in all spheres of endeavor. pic.twitter.com/Grmh6mWBgm— Naveen Jindal (@MPNaveenJindal) March 4, 2024
The sniper course at CSWT is renowned for its demanding curriculum, requiring a formidable blend of physical and mental strength. According to one of Suman’s instructors, the training regimen was intensified to emphasize concentration and camouflaging techniques, enabling snipers to approach the enemy covertly. Throughout the training, she consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and performance and earned the admiration of her instructors and peers alike.
Her achievement not only shatters stereotypes but also serves as a beacon of inspiration for women across the nation.
Bhaskar Singh Rawat on Suman Kumari’s achievement
CSWT Inspector General Bhaskar Singh Rawat lauded Suman’s accomplishment, emphasizing the rigorous nature of the sniper course and the exceptional dedication required to succeed. He announced that Suman was now qualified to be posted as a sniper instructor, further solidifying her status as a trailblazer within the BSF.
Suman Kumari’s journey exemplifies the spirit of empowerment and progress within the Indian military, showcasing the transformative potential of breaking gender barriers.
Her historic achievement marks not only a milestone for the BSF but also a giant leap forward towards a more inclusive and progressive society.