Usha Kiarn, the youngest CRPF officer to be a part of CoBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action) at just 28 years of age has done the country proud on multiple occasions and is an inspiration to girls everywhere.
Coming from a defense background, Usha Kiran is a third generation CRPF officer with her father and grandfather both being a part of the force before her. The former national level athlete who represented Delhi in triple jump is also a chemistry graduate. Her respect for the defense forces had been instilled in her since she was a little kid and it only grew with the passing years.
Fresh out of the academy, she got the opportunity to work in the naxal infiltrated area of Bastar, Chhattisgarh which greatly influenced her decision to apply for CoBRA. CoBRA is a 10-man battalion commando force stationed at high risk areas and Ms. Usha Kiran became the first woman to join it in the Jungle Warriors unit.
Her induction to the battalion was not easy, she had to go through rigorous training, both mental and physical that was designed for men much bigger and physically stronger than her as there was no changes in the training module or parameters for her.
For the very first time a woman was leading the ‘jawaans” and this made her work even harder in order to establish leadership. She has stated time and again that her jawaans are her main source of inspiration and seeing their enthusiasm and energy is what motivates her. The women in naxal affected villages who were once scared of the men found comfort in sharing their knowledge and grievances with another woman.
Her noble service to the country earned her the Young Achiever of the Year at the Vogue Women of the Year 2018. The grand function where other women graced the night with ball gowns and designer clothes, Ms. Usha Kiran stood proud in her CRPF uniform when she went on stage to receive her award.
This lady Commando has surpassed all odds to inspire young women all around to stand for what they believe in as we all have the courage to overcome our fears if we just dig deep enough.
