A young woman from Ralunamei village in Manipur, Ch Enoni, has achieved her dream of wearing the Olive Green by being commissioned as an officer in the Indian Army. Her story unfolded during the recent Passing Out Parade (POP) at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai, where she proudly graduated alongside fellow cadets, marking a significant milestone not just for herself but for her family and the conflict-affected region of Manipur.
Enoni’s journey toward this prestigious achievement began in Class 8 when the National Cadet Corps (NCC) first opened its doors to girls. Inspired by the program, she eagerly joined the NCC in her school. Her dedication and passion led her to relocate to Delhi to join the senior wing of the NCC, further solidifying her desire to pursue a military career.
The parade, held on the historic Parmeshwaran Drill Square, highlighted the culmination of 11 months of rigorous training, during which Enoni honed her skills alongside 161 gentleman cadets and 36 women cadets from India, in addition to international cadets from friendly nations. This event not only showcased their hard work but also served as a celebration of their commitment to serve the nation.
Chief of Army Staff General Manoj Pande, who was present to review the parade, emphasized the importance of inclusivity in the military. He commended the cadets for their dedication and made a significant statement about gender equality in armed services, asserting that “gender had no boundaries when it came to serving the nation.” He remarked that the profession of soldiering transcends mere employment; it’s a profound commitment that extends beyond the uniform.
Enoni’s accomplishment is particularly noteworthy against the backdrop of ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur, which has led to the loss of over 180 lives and the displacement of thousands since May. In this context, her success serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, inspiring the youth of the Northeast to aspire to careers in the Armed Forces, reinforcing the notion that dreams can be realized despite adversity.
