“Sometimes you have to be your own hero”
How many of us are willing to step out of our comfort zones and leave behind our protected environments, only to protect our countrymen? Not many young girls have the guts and panache akin to Tanushree Pareek- a dignified Border Security Force (BSF) officer- who has made history by becoming the first female combat officer in the 51 year history of BSF. In the line of Defence forces, women are not conventionally awarded combat roles in India. This tradition was challenged by the Indian Air Force last year, when it commissioned its first batch of three female fighter pilots. Way before that though, the BSF opened way for women to join combat duties in 2013. Tanushree, who belongs to Bikaner (Rajasthan), took up this grueling challenge and emerged victorious. In March this year, she was awarded her rank at the BSF Academy in Tekanpur by the Home Minister Rajnath Singh himself. Needless to say, she has made the whole nation proud.
To watch Tanushree speak in any interview is a delight. One can see why she is where she is. Her attitude is humble and warm, and her demeanour calm and composed. She speaks with keen intelligence. Her thoughts as well as words are clearly sorted. She knows what she is in for and she is quite ready for it. In her own words:
“I was so excited that I prepared myself for the parade with double zeal. I think now it is the time for girls to actively participate in tough tasks.”
Let’s take a look at her journey-
Tanushree was born into a joint family of Bikaner. She was blessed to have loved ones who always supported her in her decisions. They wouldn’t discriminate between the boys and the girls of the family. She got her share of freedom and support to pursue her education and dreams. This played a huge role in her upbringing and her attitude towards life. Her father, a veterinary doctor, always encouraged her to work with focus and maintain a balance between studies and fitness. Her mother gave up a job as a lecturer to care for her children. She would not bog Tanushree down with errands in the kitchen, giving her time to focus on her education and career. Rightfully so, she gives the credit for her success to her parents and their unconditional support. Incidentally, Tanushree has been recently made the brand ambassador by the state government for the Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao campaign.
Tanushree had not chalked out this plan since childhood. She was a regular student who was good at studies. She played badminton at state level and even learned horse- riding. After class 12th, she pursued a B.Tech degree in Electronics and Communications from Government Engineering College, Bikaner. It was here, that she joined the National Cadet Corps or NCC. Her love for uniform began to cement itself from this point onwards, and she began collecting her thoughts on a future in the government services.
In 2013, the BSF allowed women to apply for combat duty. Tanushree was only 22 years of age then. She worked hard for the Civil Services exams, but could not clear the Mains. At this time, she was pursuing post- graduation in Rural Development from IGNOU. She then appeared for the UPSC CAPF written exam, which is an integrated entrance examination for posts in CRPF, BSF, CISF, and SSB. True to her merit, she cleared the exam and then had to prepare for the physical tests. She had to put on six to seven kilograms weight and get fit within a month to clear these; and that she did. With determination and grit, she achieved her target and qualified the demanding four- phase recruitment for the forces.
Next up was the training, which proved to be the toughest phase. Theoretical knowledge and routines were still adaptable, but she had to work hard on her physical fitness and stamina. As a civilian, she would not wake up early in the mornings or have vigorous workouts. During training however, she would wake up at 5.30 a.m. daily and work on pushing herself to the maximum she could. The training was exhausting. The males and females at the Academy were on the same platform; there was no distinction in their schedules, studies and training. Tanushree was taught the same things and made to do the same tasks that her male counterparts did. Bodily aches and mental frustration would creep in on her, but she remained resilient throughout the grueling process.
Tanushree underwent 53 weeks of intensive training at the BSF Academy. The program comprised of physical training, intelligence gathering, and other forms of battle craft and border- guarding exercises. She continued to excel academically at the Academy. Moreover, she earned awards for her outstanding achievements in drills and public speaking. She was also awarded the title of the ‘all- round best trainee’ there! She proved her mettle, and more.
Her parents were delighted for her and did not hesitate at all in helping her take up this courageous role. This year, Tanushree headed her batch of 67 trainee officers at her passing out parade. The 25 year old’s first posting is in Punjab, along the Indo- Pak border. Here, she will take up her first duty as an Assistant Commandant, the very first of her kind.
The level- headed officer has a discernable passion for her job. On asked about the period of separation from her family and the unstable life in Defence forces, she says:
“It is a preconceived notion that separation takes place only in Defence forces. The ladies who work in corporate also have to be out of their homes until late evenings. It’s all about balance and work ethics. If you are working, work with full satisfaction; and when with loved ones, be with them with all mind and body. As it is, the Defence forces provide a lot of perks and privileges such as 75 days leave in a year, which no other sector does. This leave can be employed to give due time to family without any mental distractions.”
Despite all the challenges and hindrances, Tanushree remained resolute in her efforts. She believed in the faith her loved ones placed in her. She was sure that she could do what others can, no matter how tough the going may get. This brave and resolute young lady sets the bar high for all those following her footsteps. She is truly redefining the spirit of womanhood. As she is all set and enthused in beginning her journey, we wish her the best in all her future endeavours. May she continue to rise and inspire those around her.
