Lt Bhavana Kasturi, Contingent Commander of the Indian Army Service Corps, is set to become the first woman to lead an all-men contingent at the Republic Day Parade. She spoke to our WION on a range of issues - from the feeling before the big day at Rajpath to being a woman in the military. 

WION: How do you feel that you will be leading an all-men contingent?

Lt Bhavana Kasturi: Its a matter of great pride and honour to me and its a glory for us. This will remain a history of Army Service Corps that our contingent has been at Rajpath as part of Republic Day 2019. Not just me, two of our JCOs and 144 jawans in the contingent are very privileged, and it will be in history for us. We will be in the books of history forever.

WION: What has your been your experience as a woman in the military?

Lt Bhavana Kasturi: I think there is no gender bias in the organisation. An officer will remain an officer, and responsibility and the charter of service will remain the same. We are getting a great opportunity to portray the strength of the Army and on such a big platform. 

WION: Has the glass ceiling broken?

Lt Bhavana Kasturi:  Absolutely, a lot of changes have come in Indian society. And not just in the Army but in the civil world too, women and girls are doing wonders. I must say, we will keep doing great.

WION: Your message to the women of this country?

Lt Bhavana Kasturi: I think, I am already a role model for a lot of young girls, especially. I think the only thing I want to say is, chase ur dream and don't give up in the middle.

WION: How is the josh?

Lt Bhavana Kasturi: Josh is high.

(Reporting by Siddhant Sibal)