We often read countless stories of courage and commitment in the grand narrative of India’s military history. But few just represent how unwavering spirit, family values and sense of purpose to serve the country can empower a woman to rise through crisis and make history.
They don’t just inspire you — they shake you, stir you, and leave you transformed. Captain Yashika Tyagi’s redefines courage and conviction. It’s a powerful narrative that can truly change the way we see the world.
Her Early Life of Captain Yashika Tyagi
Born in Dehradun as a daughter of an Army officer, Patriotism and sense of discipline was cultivated in her heart and body from a very young age. Her father who served India in wars of 1962,1965, and 1971, sadly passed away in 1979. Her mother was left alone with her three young daughters. But she chose to show immense strength by not returning to her parental home and raising them independently. These moments of resilience became the core qualities of Captain Yashika.
Reflecting on the source of her Strength.
Captain Yashika mentions how her eyes used to spark by seeing her father in picture wearing the uniform and this small spark of inspiration led her to apply for the officers’ training academy in 1993 when the Indian army opened its door for women through the Short Service Commission (SSC).
On the first day of the academy, she was selected to be trained as the Contingent Commander and with her dedication and resilience Captain Yashika excelled herself in both physical training and academics. She graduated from Officers training academy, Chennai in 1994, with a silver medal which is the symbol of her dedication towards her work.
A Woman’s Stand in the Armed Forces
In 1997, she became the first women logistics officer to be posted at Leh, a region known for its harsh terrain and bitter temperature. This crucial moment of her life was not just a personal win but also a representation of women in armed forces. There is a harsh truth that people often say women can’t work in certain sectors, but Captain Yashika Tyagi proved them wrong by showing that women are just as strong and capable. Breaking all the stereotypes, she carried herself with pride and what started as a dream of wearing the uniform finally became a reality.
KARGIL WAR – 1999
The most defining moment in Captain Yashika’s life was the Kargil War of 1999. Despite being five months pregnant with her second child she chose to remain on duty while putting oneself at risk rather than asking for transfer to a safer zone or taking maternity leave.
Functioning of logistics for the troops fighting in high altitude areas like Siachen Glacier, Dras and Kargil, were seamlessly handled by her. Her ability to critically execute and coordinate missions earned her honor among her peers and seniors. She was awarded with the operation Vijay Star Medal for her contribution in Kargil War and other two military medals. After this achievement she became the first women logistics officer to draft and submit a report on the battlefield.
A Life of Purpose
Though Captain Yashika Tyagi retired in 2001. She continued serving for the nation and took the responsibility of Director of ECHS Polyclinics in insurgency in regions like Srinagar (Jammu and Kashmir) and Jorhat (Assam) managing the healthcare services of veterans and their families. Later she became the Principal of Asha School, Patna, which is an institution which provides education to children with special needs.
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As the 77th lady officer and Contingent Commander in training, she knew what it takes as a female to prove herself in a male dominated field. Therefore, she began working as a motivational speaker, warrior mindset coach and leadership coach. She has delivered more than 200 talks at well-known organizations such as Infosys, Axis Mutual funds and more to give a new perspective of staying ahead in the learning curve.
Leading the Change
She even attended Josh Talk, Ted Talk and worked with Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao.
Her speeches consist of authenticity, powerful personal stories, resilience, courage and ethics.
Due to the pandemic, she started a YouTube channel “Shaurya tales”, where she continued sharing her tales of other Braveheart armies, military operations and promoting gender empowerment.
“Sow positivity, reap a harvest of joy”. She loves to inspire young females and truly enjoys talking to youth, who aspire to make a difference. As a woman who made it till the last segment of war, she’s ready to answer all the people who have a backward mindset and try to restrict females from joining combat.
