Arunachal Pradesh's Ponung Doming Makes History as First Female Colonel from Northeast in Indian Army

In Short: Ponung Doming of Arunachal Pradesh has become the first female officer from Northeast India to be promoted to the rank of Colonel in the Indian Army. Currently stationed in Leh, she commands a Border Roads Task Force unit and holds the distinction of being the first female Army officer from her state. Her journey began with a successful academic career and a degree in civil engineering. Her promotion is a significant milestone for gender equality and an inspiration for aspiring individuals, especially girls, to pursue their dreams in the armed forces.

Arunachal Pradesh's Ponung Doming has made history by becoming the first female officer from the Northeast region to be promoted to the rank of Colonel in the Indian Army, marking a significant milestone for gender equality and empowerment. This commendable achievement was reported by various media outlets. Hailing from Pasighat in the East Siang district, Colonel Doming is currently stationed in Leh and holds the distinction of being the first female Army officer from her home state. In her new role, she will be leading a Border Roads Task Force (BRTF) unit in the strategically important region of Leh.

Colonel Ponung Doming's journey to this prestigious position began at Government Daying Ering Higher Secondary School and IGJ Government Higher Secondary School in Pasighat. Her exceptional academic performance during her school years earned her the distinction of being the top-ranking student among her tribal peers in Class XII. Subsequently, she pursued civil engineering at Walchand College of Engineering in Maharashtra, further honing her skills and knowledge.

Commissioned as a lieutenant in the Indian Army in 2008, Colonel Doming's unwavering dedication and hard work led to her promotion to the rank of major after four and a half years of service. In April 2014, she demonstrated her commitment to international peacekeeping efforts by serving in the United Nations Peacekeeping Force mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Interestingly, Colonel Doming's journey in the military was not initially part of her childhood dreams. However, her interest in joining the Indian Army developed during her college years. Despite facing certain circumstances that temporarily halted her pursuit, she remained determined to fulfill her aspirations. She began her professional career at a prominent multinational company in Kolkata, where she worked diligently for approximately two years. Motivated to achieve her dreams, she appeared for an examination conducted by the Service Selection Board, Allahabad, in 2008, which ultimately opened the doors for her entry into the Indian Army. She subsequently joined the Officers Training Academy in Chennai, commencing her inspiring journey as an officer.

Known for her humble nature and exemplary leadership, Colonel Ponung Doming has become a source of inspiration for many individuals. When asked if she had any advice for young aspirants, particularly girls aspiring to join the army like her, she responded, "My advice to young aspirants from our home state and the region is to dream big and, above all, possess the courage to achieve and fulfill those dreams."

Colonel Doming's historic achievement not only highlights her personal success but also symbolizes the progressive mindset and equal opportunities being fostered within the Indian Army. Her promotion serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit and capabilities of women, breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes. As the first female officer from the Northeast to attain the rank of Colonel, she paves the way for future generations, encouraging them to reach for the stars and overcome any challenges they may face.

Arunachal Pradesh's Ponung Doming has made history by becoming the first female officer from the Northeast region to be promoted to the rank of Colonel in the Indian Army, marking a significant milestone for gender equality and empowerment. This commendable achievement was reported by various media outlets. Hailing from Pasighat in the East Siang district, Colonel Doming is currently stationed in Leh and holds the distinction of being the first female Army officer from her home state. In her new role, she will be leading a Border Roads Task Force (BRTF) unit in the strategically important region of Leh.

Colonel Ponung Doming's journey to this prestigious position began at Government Daying Ering Higher Secondary School and IGJ Government Higher Secondary School in Pasighat. Her exceptional academic performance during her school years earned her the distinction of being the top-ranking student among her tribal peers in Class XII. Subsequently, she pursued civil engineering at Walchand College of Engineering in Maharashtra, further honing her skills and knowledge.

Commissioned as a lieutenant in the Indian Army in 2008, Colonel Doming's unwavering dedication and hard work led to her promotion to the rank of major after four and a half years of service. In April 2014, she demonstrated her commitment to international peacekeeping efforts by serving in the United Nations Peacekeeping Force mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

Interestingly, Colonel Doming's journey in the military was not initially part of her childhood dreams. However, her interest in joining the Indian Army developed during her college years. Despite facing certain circumstances that temporarily halted her pursuit, she remained determined to fulfill her aspirations. She began her professional career at a prominent multinational company in Kolkata, where she worked diligently for approximately two years. Motivated to achieve her dreams, she appeared for an examination conducted by the Service Selection Board, Allahabad, in 2008, which ultimately opened the doors for her entry into the Indian Army. She subsequently joined the Officers Training Academy in Chennai, commencing her inspiring journey as an officer.

Known for her humble nature and exemplary leadership, Colonel Ponung Doming has become a source of inspiration for many individuals. When asked if she had any advice for young aspirants, particularly girls aspiring to join the army like her, she responded, "My advice to young aspirants from our home state and the region is to dream big and, above all, possess the courage to achieve and fulfill those dreams."

Colonel Doming's historic achievement not only highlights her personal success but also symbolizes the progressive mindset and equal opportunities being fostered within the Indian Army. Her promotion serves as a testament to the indomitable spirit and capabilities of women, breaking barriers and shattering stereotypes. As the first female officer from the Northeast to attain the rank of Colonel, she paves the way for future generations, encouraging them to reach for the stars and overcome any challenges they may face.