In an unprecedented event that marked a historic moment in the annals of the Indian Army, Major Divya Tyagi led the Bombay Sappers’ all-men contingent at the Republic Day parade in Delhi.
This achievement set a new precedent as she became the first woman officer in the 300-year storied history of the Bombay Sappers to command the regiment’s contingent in such a prestigious event.
At 31, Major Divya Tyagi, who had been commissioned into the 115 Engineer Regiment of the Corps of Engineers eight years prior, showcased a remarkable journey of leadership and dedication.
Her role as the Contingent Commander, leading an officer, two junior commissioned officers, and 144 other members, was the culmination of six months of rigorous practice and preparation for the parade, an effort that highlighted her commitment and the trust placed in her capabilities.
Major Tyagi’s academic and professional journey is as impressive as her leadership in the parade. With a B.Tech in Civil Engineering, Tyagi brought a technical expertise to her military career. Married to an army officer, she was posted at the Bombay Engineering Group and Centre, Khadki, in the Pune district.
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Her initial military training at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai laid the foundation for her illustrious career, where she graduated as Academy Cadet Adjutant and joined the ranks of the Bombay Sappers in September 2016.
The Bombay Engineer Group, informally known as the Bombay Sappers, is a distinguished regiment within the Corps of Engineers of the Indian Army. With origins tracing back to 1777 under the Bombay Presidency of the British Raj, the regiment has a rich history of valor and excellence.
Over the years, the Bombay Sappers have been honored with the highest gallantry awards, both pre and post-Indian independence, showcasing their unparalleled bravery and service to the nation.
Major Tyagi’s path to this remarkable achievement was not without its challenges. Hailing from Mohammad Pur village, Modinagar in Uttar Pradesh, she grew up in a humble setting with her father being a farmer and her mother, a housewife. Despite the hurdles, Tyagi’s determination and hard work propelled her forward.
Her time at OTA Chennai was transformative, not only in terms of physical training but also in instilling a deep sense of discipline and responsibility. Her achievements at the academy, including securing the Silver Medal for standing second in Overall Order of Merit, were early indicators of her potential and dedication to her service.
This milestone in the Republic Day parade is not just a personal achievement for Major Divya Tyagi but also a significant moment for the Indian Army and the nation. It reflects the evolving dynamics within the armed forces, where gender barriers are being broken, and the spirit of inclusivity and equality is being embraced.
Major Tyagi’s leadership of the Bombay Sappers at the Republic Day parade will be remembered as a pioneering step towards a more inclusive and diverse military force, inspiring future generations of soldiers, irrespective of gender, to aspire to the highest echelons of service and leadership.
