Srinagar, Jan 27: In a historic moment for the Indian Army and women across the nation, Havildar Preeti Rajak, Trap Shooter, was elevated to the rank of Subedar this week holding the distinction of being the First woman Subedar in the Indian Army, marking an extraordinary feat of Nari Shakti.
Subedar Preeti Rajak was enlisted in the Corps of Military Police on December 22, 2022, based on her exceptional performance in Trap Shooting. As the first Meritorious Sportswoman in the Shooting discipline to join the Indian Army as a Havildar, her journey reached new heights.
During the 19th Asian Games 2022 in Hangzhou, China (September 21 – October 1, 2023), Sub Preeti Rajak clinched a Silver Medal in the Trap Women Team Event. Acknowledging her exceptional performance, she was granted a first out-of-turn promotion to Subedar.
Lt Gen Gajendra Joshi, AVSM, SM, Commandant Infantry School, presided over the pipping ceremony, commending the shooter for her outstanding achievements.
Currently ranked 6th in India (Trap Women Event), Subedar Preeti Rajak is undergoing training at the Army Marksmanship Unit (AMU) in preparation for the Paris Olympic Games 2024. Her groundbreaking accomplishment is expected to inspire generations of young women to enlist in the Indian Army and excel in professional shooting.
On the same day, Padmashri and Arjuna Awardee Subedar Major & Honorary Lieutenant Jitu Rai was promoted to the rank of Subedar Major & Honorary Captain for his meritorious service.
