The Face of a New Era
During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the United Kingdom, a powerful image captured the public’s imagination. It wasn't a handshake or a diplomatic agreement, but the poised and vigilant figure of a woman in a black suit standing guard directly behind the Prime Minister. This single image sparked a nationwide conversation and revealed a quiet but historic shift at the highest level of India's national security. The woman was Adaso Kapesa, and her presence marked the moment a significant glass ceiling was shattered.
A Trailblazer from Manipur
Inspector Adaso Kapesa, a native of Manipur, has officially become the first woman to serve in the Special Protection Group (SPG), the elite force exclusively tasked with the personal security of India's Prime Minister. Her journey to this historic posting began in the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB), one of India's Central Armed Police Forces, where she honed the skills that would eventually lead her to break one of the last remaining gender barriers in the country's security apparatus.
Until Kapesa's induction, the SPG had been an exclusively male domain since its inception. Her appointment is therefore not just a personal achievement but a landmark event. By taking her place in the Prime Minister's innermost security detail on a high-profile international trip, she has moved beyond symbolism and demonstrated that women are not only capable but essential at the forefront of national security operations.
A Symbol of Strength and Inspiration
The public response to Kapesa's visibility has been overwhelmingly positive. Social media platforms were flooded with messages of admiration, hailing her as a role model and a powerful symbol of strength. For many, particularly young women from across the country and underrepresented communities, her story has become a source of profound inspiration. Seeing a woman from Manipur in such a high-stakes, historically male-dominated role has sent a clear message that careers in defence and law enforcement are accessible to all who have the dedication and skill.
The significance of her role cannot be overstated. The SPG is not a ceremonial unit; its officers are among the most highly trained in the country, undergoing rigorous preparation in combat, surveillance, intelligence gathering, and crisis response. Kapesa's presence reshapes the traditional image of security leadership and underscores a defining shift towards greater gender inclusivity within India's uniformed services. Her achievement is a visible testament to the fact that excellence, not gender, is the ultimate qualification for serving at the highest level.
