28 women officers commissioned at OTA Gaya, some rise above adversity

Gaya: From a remote village in Kanyakumari district of Tamil Nadu to the parade ground at the Officers Training Academy (OTA), Gaya, Aswin Kirupai scripted a remarkable journey. Commissioned into the Indian Army on Saturday, she also received the gold medal for standing first in the order of merit among the officer cadets at the passing-out parade.

Despite losing her father at the age of 14, she won the gold medal at one of the nation’s toughest training academies at 24. She was among the 28 officer cadets commissioned from the Short Service Commission Technical Entry (Women)–35th Course at OTA Gaya.


Another cadet from a small town in Uttarakhand, Rashi Baloni, was also commissioned after completing the 11-month training programme at the academy. She topped the academic subjects and was awarded the silver medal.

At just eight, Aswin represented her state at the Sub-Junior National Athletics Championship, winning a bronze medal in the long jump. Life took a tough turn when she lost her father, but she refused to give up. She excelled in academics, pursuing MSc in computer science, and joined the National Cadet Corps (NCC) with a clear vision of becoming an officer.

Her exceptional leadership abilities and commitment earned her the gold medal at the All India Thal Sainik Camp (2019) and the Prime Minister’s Award 2020. Aswin’s perseverance paid off when she was selected for officer training at OTA Gaya, where she topped her course and won the gold medal.

Dedicating her success to her mother, Glory Atchutha, Aswin said: “The achievements in my life are only due to the blessings and guidance of my mother. Now it’s time to make my country proud.”

Hailing from Pauri Garhwal district of Uttarakhand, Baloni joined OTA Gaya for training on her fourth attempt. She has a bachelor’s degree in computer science and was commissioned in the Corps of EME (Electronics and Mechanical Engineers).

Giving credit to her father, Ravindra Kumar, for his immense support, Baloni said, “Today is a proud moment for me and my family. My father always supported me to pursue the career of my choice. It’s the beginning of a new journey in my life.”Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Women's day wishes, messages and quotes !