Solan: Colonel Sapna Rana, an ex cadet of 1HP Girls Bn NCC Solan, a distinguished officer from Himachal Pradesh, has scripted history by becoming the first Woman Commanding Officer to lead a Battalion from the state. Hailing from a small hamlet in Solan district, she is the embodiment of Nari Shakti, showcasing remarkable leadership in her current role as the commander of an Army Service Corps (ASC) Battalion in the North East.
Born to Mr. Rajender Thakur, a teacher, and Mrs. Krishna Thakur, a homemaker, Colonel Sapna Rana completed her schooling and graduation in Solan. Her journey towards military excellence began during her college days when she served as the Senior Under Officer at 1 HP Girls NCC Battalion in Solan.As a cadet she was a very dedicated and disciplined cadet.Notably, she was the lone NCC cadet from Himachal to be selected for the prestigious Kargil Vijay Camp at Kargil sector.
Having cleared the Service Selection Board, Colonel Rana joined the Officers Training Academy in Chennai in 2003, earning her commission as a Lieutenant in the Indian Army in 2004. Throughout her training, she demonstrated outstanding athleticism, clinching gold medals in cross country, obstacle training, and Academy endurance training.
Colonel Sapna Rana’s prowess extends beyond the military realm; she excelled as a sportsperson, achieving national recognition in Pistol & Trap shooting as part of the Army shooting team. Presently, she is an accomplished microlight pilot and an enthusiastic marathon runner.
As an ex-cadet of 1 HP Girls Battalion NCC Solan, Colonel Rana has brought immense pride to her alma mater by achieving the remarkable feat of becoming the first Woman Commanding Officer. Her dedication and outstanding performances in the Army have earned her thrice the prestigious COAS & General Officer Commanding in Chief commendation cards. These achievements not only reflect her individual excellence but also bring laurels to her family and the entire Himachal state. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Colonel Sapna Rana and wish her continued success in her illustrious career in the elite Armed Forces.
