New Delhi: The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) has inducted two women officers in a major milestone to lead important field formations tasked with ensuring strategic road connectivity in some of the most sensitive border areas of the country.
Sphurti Kulkarni of the rank of colonel became the first woman to be appointed as commander of the 45 Border Roads Task Force under Project Chetak on July 30. The task force is mandated with creating and maintaining strategic roads along the western border of India, which is extremely vital for military operations in that area.
Previously, on April 30 this year Shikha Bhadauria of the rank of colonel took command of the 32 Border Roads Task Force under Project Beacon. The task force maintains roads in the northern Kashmir region and ensures smooth connectivity throughout the year in addition to assisting in the Amarnath Yatra annually.
Announcing the appointments, the BRO described them as “another milestone for women in BRO”, saying the officers’ elevation to command roles reflects the organization’s commitment to “excellence, professionalism and inclusive leadership.”
The organization added that the appointments demonstrate its resolve to “empower leaders who build, connect and strengthen the Nation,” while remaining guided by its motto, “श्रमेण सर्वं साध्यम्” (Through Hard Work, Everything is Achievable).
The BRO plays a vital role in constructing and maintaining roads, bridges, tunnels and other infrastructure in some of the country’s most challenging terrains. Its projects are essential for strengthening border connectivity, supporting military operations and improving access for people living in remote areas.
The postings of Sphurti Kulkarni and Shikha Bhadauria are just some of the most recent cases of women officers being appointed to operational leadership positions in organisations involved in India’s strategic preparedness and border infrastructure.