Preeti Rajak Becomes Indian Army's First Female Subedar

Havildar Preeti Rajak, a distinguished trap shooter in the Indian Army, has reached a historic milestone by being promoted to the esteemed rank of Subedar. Her promotion marks a groundbreaking achievement, as she becomes the first woman in the Indian Army to hold this prestigious rank, signifying not only her personal accomplishment but also a significant advancement for women in the armed forces.

A Testament to Nari Shakti

The Indian Army, in a statement lauded Rajak’s promotion as an extraordinary display of Nari Shakti, recognizing her exceptional talent, dedication, and contribution to the field of sports and military service. Her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring female athletes and soldiers across the nation, showcasing the immense potential and capabilities of women in traditionally male-dominated domains.

A Remarkable Journey Begins

Rajak embarked on her journey with the Corps of Military Police in December 2022, earning her place through her outstanding performance in trap shooting. She made history as the first meritorious sportswoman in the shooting discipline to be enrolled in the army as a havildar, laying the foundation for her trailblazing career.

Triumph on the International Stage

Rajak’s prowess as a trap shooter shone brightly on the international stage at the 19th Asian Games 2022 held in Hangzhou, China, where she clinched the silver medal in the trap women team event. Her stellar performance not only brought glory to the nation but also earned her recognition as a formidable athlete on the global platform.

Recognition and Reward

In recognition of her extraordinary achievements, Rajak was awarded the first out-of-turn promotion to the rank of Subedar. The pipping ceremony, presided over by Lieutenant General Gajendra Joshi, commandant of the Infantry School, served as a momentous occasion to celebrate Rajak’s exemplary performance and dedication to her craft.

Aiming for Excellence

Currently ranked 6th in India in the trap women event, Rajak continues to hone her skills and sharpen her aim at the elite Army Marksmanship Unit in Mhow. With her sights set on the Paris Olympics, she remains steadfast in her pursuit of excellence, embodying the spirit of determination, resilience, and unwavering commitment to her country and her sport.