Historic First: CRPF's Simran Bala to Command All-Male Contingent at Republic Day Parade 2026
In a groundbreaking moment for gender equality in India's security forces, Simran Bala, a 26-year-old Assistant Commandant with the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), will lead an all-male contingent during the Republic Day parade on January 26, 2026, at Kartavya Path in Delhi. Officials confirmed this historic appointment, highlighting it as a significant milestone in the inclusion of women in leadership roles within paramilitary forces.
A Trailblazer from Jammu and Kashmir
Hailing from the Rajouri district in Jammu and Kashmir, Simran Bala is not only making waves as the commander of a 140-plus male personnel unit but also as the first woman from her district to join the CRPF in an officer rank. The CRPF, with its strength of 3.25 lakh personnel, serves as India's premier internal security force, actively engaged in:
- Anti-Naxal operations in regions like Chhattisgarh
- Counter-terrorist missions in Jammu and Kashmir
- Counter-insurgency duties in the Northeast
Bala's journey began with a graduation in political science from the Government College for Women in Gandhinagar, Jammu. She was commissioned into the CRPF in April 2025 and initially posted to the 'Bastariya' battalion in Chhattisgarh, where she undertook critical anti-Naxal operations.
Excellence in Training and Leadership
During her training at the CRPF academy in Gurugram, Simran Bala distinguished herself by receiving awards for best officer in training and public speaking, following her qualification in the CAPF Assistant Commandants exam conducted by the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Her skills and dedication have paved the way for this unprecedented role in the Republic Day parade.
While women CRPF officers have previously commanded various contingents at the parade, this marks the first instance where a female officer will lead a party consisting entirely of male personnel, symbolizing a major step forward in breaking gender barriers within the armed forces.
Republic Day Parade 2026: A Grand Showcase
The annual Republic Day parade, scheduled for January 26, 2026, at Kartavya Path, promises to be a spectacular display of India's military prowess and rich cultural heritage. The event will feature a unique blend of celebrations, including 150 years of the national song 'Vande Mataram', as outlined by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh during a press conference in New Delhi on January 16, 2026.
Key highlights of the parade include:
- A joint team of women 'dare devils' from the CRPF and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), performing stunts on Enfield Bullet bikes, a feat previously showcased in 2020.
- Marching and band contingents from the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).
- Famed camel-mounted troops and band teams from the Border Security Force (BSF).
- A joint tableau by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) and the Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD), part of the Union Home Ministry's float.
International Dignitaries and Significance
Adding to the grandeur of the event, the Chief Guests for the Republic Day Parade 2026 will be President of the European Council Antonio Costa and President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, underscoring India's diplomatic ties.
Simran Bala's command of an all-male contingent is more than a ceremonial role; it reflects the progressive strides being made in empowering women within India's security apparatus. Her story serves as an inspiration, highlighting the potential for gender inclusivity in traditionally male-dominated fields.
