Farmer’s daughter from Ropar tops AFA merit list; AFPI cadets excel

Mohali: In a major boost for Punjab, two cadets from Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute (AFPI) for Girls, Mohali, have secured top ranks in national-level defence entrance merit lists.Mehakpreet Kaur, daughter of a farmer from Ropar district, has secured All India Rank (AIR) 1 in the Air Force Academy (AFA) merit list, while fellow cadet Komalpreet Kaur has secured AIR 18 for admission to the National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla.The feat marks another milestone for the state-run institute, which prepares young women for careers in the armed forces. Both cadets come from modest backgrounds and exemplify the institute’s motto, “Shubh Karman Te Kabhu Na Taraun”.Mehakpreet Kaur, a resident of Paprali village in Rupnagar, is the daughter of farmer Amarjit Singh and Rupinder Kaur. Her top rank in the AFA merit list is being seen as a significant achievement, especially given the limited intake for women in the services.Komalpreet Kaur, who secured AIR 18 for NDA entry, hails from Shahura village in Amritsar district. She is the daughter of Havildar Gurmeet Singh of the Indian Army and Baljit Kaur, reflecting a legacy of service.AFPI director Maj Gen Jasbir Singh Sandhu (Retd) said securing AIR 1 in the AFA merit list was an extraordinary feat given the intense competition. He added that the achievements would inspire more young women in Punjab to pursue careers in the armed forces.AFPI shinesMehakpreet Kaur: AIR 1, Air Force AcademyKomalpreet Kaur: AIR 18, NDA entryBoth cadets from Mai Bhago AFPI, MohaliMehakpreet is a farmer’s daughter from RoparKomalpreet is an Army havildar’s daughterMilestone for women in defence careers