Munish Sood
MANDI:
In a profession long considered the preserve of men, Nirmala Kumari has emerged as a symbol of grit, skill and quiet determination. Posted as an Assistant Lineman (ALM) with Himachal Pradesh State Electricity Board Limited (HPSEBL) in Chamba, Nirmala has not only broken stereotypes but has also set new benchmarks through her work on the ground.
Whether it is scaling electric poles, repairing snapped lines or untangling hazardous overhead wires, Nirmala performs tasks that demand physical endurance and technical precision with remarkable confidence. Currently serving in the Hardaspura area under Chamba division, she treats consumer satisfaction as a core responsibility, responding swiftly to complaints and ensuring uninterrupted power supply.
Nirmala traces her journey to a childhood ambition to do something unconventional. With strong backing from her parents and siblings, she pursued technical education and chose a career path rarely associated with women in rural and semi-urban India.
Round-the-clock duty, unwavering commitment
Electricity services operate on a 24-hour, three-shift system — morning, evening and night — and Nirmala performs her duties across all shifts with equal dedication. Beyond routine hours, she remains available for on-call services, often responding to emergencies at odd hours. Since her recruitment in the 2018-19 batch, she has served in several demanding areas, including Maredi, Sarol and the remote tribal region of Pangi.
Her posting in the snow-bound tribal region of Pangi stands out as a defining chapter of her career. Frequent power disruptions due to heavy snowfall, inaccessible terrain and extreme weather make the region one of the most challenging postings. While many hesitate to work under such conditions, Nirmala delivered consistently, restoring power supply and earning appreciation for her resilience and professionalism.
Turning doubt into determination
The road to this success was not without resistance. When Nirmala enrolled in the electrician trade at an ITI, she faced skepticism and taunts from peers who doubted her capabilities simply because she was a woman.
Instead of giving in, she drew strength from supportive teachers and her own determination. Today, her work on the field stands as her strongest response to those doubts.
Nirmala Kumari’s journey is more than a personal achievement because it is a message of empowerment. At a time when women continue to challenge traditional boundaries, her story proves that courage, competence and commitment can light up even the toughest paths. She remains a source of inspiration for young women, showing that with confidence and hard work, no profession is beyond reach.
