In a landmark move for gender equality within the Indian Army, six women officers have begun a challenging journey at the prestigious Counter Insurgency & Jungle Warfare School (CIJWS) located in Vairengte, Mizoram.
These pioneering women are the first to enroll in the rigorous Low-Intensity Conflict Operations (LICO) course, traditionally a male-dominated domain.
The CIJWS, established in 1967 under the vision of the legendary Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, is renowned for its specialised training in jungle warfare.
The school emerged in response to the heavy casualties suffered by Indian soldiers during the Northeast insurgency at the hands of insurgent groups adept at hit-and-run guerrilla tactics.
Recognising the inadequacy of conventional warfare training, Manekshaw envisioned an institute that would equip soldiers to fight "The Guerrilla Like A Guerrilla," as the CIJWS motto aptly states.
The LICO course is notorious for its intensity. It pushes participants to their physical and mental limits, honing critical skills in jungle warfare, counterinsurgency operations, and low-intensity conflict scenarios.
From mastering reflex firing and tactical strategies to surviving on unforgiving terrain, the course prepares soldiers for real-world combat situations where precision and stealth are paramount.
The inclusion of these six women officers marks a significant step towards dismantling gender barriers within the Indian Army.
They will train alongside their male counterparts, undergoing the same gruelling exercises and theoretical instruction.
This development reflects the Army's growing commitment to providing equal opportunities for women officers to excel in various combat roles.
The CIJWS itself boasts a rich legacy of international collaboration. Throughout the year, the institute has welcomed officers from countries such as Bangladesh, Bhutan, France, Malaysia, Nepal, and Sri Lanka.
These officers participate in specialised training modules, seeking to refine their skills in reflex firing, tactical manoeuvring, and jungle survival.
The exchange of knowledge and expertise fosters a spirit of international cooperation in combating unconventional warfare threats.
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