Sub-Inspector Suman Kumari from Mandi in Himachal Pradesh becomes BSF’s first woman sniper

TNR Desk

Sub-Inspector Suman Kumari from Mandi district in Himachal Pradesh has scripted history by becoming the first female sniper of the Border Security Force (BSF). She completed an intensive eight-week sniper course at the Central School of Weapons and Tactics (CSWT) in Indore, achieving the prestigious ‘instructor grade.’ Suman joined the BSF in 2021.

“The 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 (sic),” posted BSF’s CSWT-Indore unit while announcing the milestone on Saturday (March 2, 2024), highlighting the organisation’s commitment to inclusivity.

Motivated by firsthand experience of sniper threats from across the border while commanding a platoon in Punjab, Suman volunteered for the challenging sniper course. Despite being the only female among 56 male counterparts, her determination and dedication earned recognition from her seniors, leading to her enrollment in the rigorous training course.

The sniper course is demanding in nature and among the toughest military training programmes. With her expertise, Suman is set to inspire more female recruits to explore traditionally male-dominated military roles.

Instructors emphasised the physical and mental strength required for the sniper course, which focuses on concentration and camouflaging techniques to approach enemies undetected. Suman’s instructors praised her leadership during the course, citing her hard work, determination and eagerness to learn. Suman comes from a humble family. Her father works as an electrician while her mother is a homemaker.