Varanasi: In a significant step towards strengthening women’s participation in policing, as many as 491 women constables will take part in a passing out parade at the Varanasi Police Line on April 20 after completing their training.
Selected through a transparent recruitment process under the leadership of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, these women constables have undergone a rigorous nine-month training programme. The training covered a wide spectrum of policing skills, including physical fitness, cybercrime prevention, forensic science, law and order management, and riot control.
Officials said the initiative aligns with the state government’s flagship Mission Shakti campaign, aimed at enhancing women’s safety, dignity, and empowerment. Once inducted into active service, these women constables are expected to play a crucial role not only in maintaining law and order but also in addressing crimes against women and promoting gender sensitivity in policing.
Police Commissioner M Mohit Agarwal stated that the trainees were equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for modern policing. “They have been trained in social policing, handling technology-driven crimes, weapon usage, CCTNS operations, forensic medicine, disaster management, and traffic control, among other areas,” he said.
The training also included modules on the Indian Constitution, human rights, gender sensitivity, police ethics, and accountability. In addition, the trainees received hands-on experience in field duties such as guard deployment, escort services, and communication systems, along with regular physical drills, yoga, and sports activities.
According to officials, the women trainees are currently undergoing final evaluations ahead of the parade. Upon successful completion, they will be formally inducted into the Uttar Pradesh Police.
The police lines has been equipped with modern residential facilities for the trainees, including a 12-storey building, barracks with bunk beds, RO water coolers, canteen services, ATMs, and mess facilities providing nutritious meals.
Several trainees expressed pride and determination ahead of their induction. Neetu Gautam said they aim to ensure every woman feels safe, while Kavita Yadav emphasised their role as agents of social change. Another trainee, Roshni Devi, highlighted that the government’s recruitment drive has opened new avenues for women’s employment and empowerment.
Officials noted that the passing out parade will mark the culmination of intensive training and the beginning of active duty for the recruits, who are expected to contribute significantly to public safety and community policing across the state.
The event is likely to be attended by senior police and administrative officials, marking an important milestone in the state’s ongoing efforts to strengthen inclusive policing and women’s empowerment.
