Pune: The Bombay Sappers, also known as the Bombay Engineering Group (BEG) and Centre, secured the second position at the Republic Day Parade this year, marking their achievement after a hiatus of two decades. Leading the contingent was Major Divya Tyagi, becoming the first woman officer to command the prestigious Bombay Sappers.
Major Tyagi expressed her pride and stated, It’s a proud moment for me and our contingent. The hard work, discipline, and unwavering commitment of each member have paid off. The contingent comprised two Junior Commissioned Officers and 144 personnel who dedicated themselves to rigorous practice sessions in various weather conditions for their stellar performance. Major Tyagi highlighted the significance of their accomplishment, stating that it would remain etched in the history of the Bombay Sappers forever.
The trophy for being the runner-up was presented to Major Tyagi and BEG Commandant Brigadier D G Patwardhan by Chief of Army Staff General Manoj Pande in New Delhi. Brigadier Patwardhan expressed his delight, hailing it as a historic moment and asserting the Bombay Sappers’ tradition of excellence.
The Army Headquarters allows each regiment to participate in the Republic Day Parade once every 15 years on a rotational basis. A panel of five members evaluates several criteria, including turnout, smartness, drills, coordination, and word of command. This year, the Bombay Sappers secured the runner-up position based on the assessment of the panel and online feedback from the public.
Lt Gen Asit Mistry (retd), who commanded the R-Day Parade from 2018 to 2020 as the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of New Delhi area, provided insights into the evaluation process. Each member of the panel gives independent marks to the contingent. Based on their assessment and online feedback from people, the panel selects the winner and runner-up of the parade.
The Bombay Sappers’ recognition at the Republic Day Parade highlights their enduring commitment to excellence and their contribution to the Indian Army. Major Tyagi’s command serves as a testament to the growing role of women officers within the armed forces.
The Bombay Sappers have once again cemented their legacy as an exceptional regiment, evoking admiration and inspiring future generations. Their accomplishment resonates not only within the Indian Army but also with a global audience appreciative of dedication, discipline, and gender inclusivity in defense forces.
