The move marks a significant step towards greater representation of women veterans in administrative and welfare roles and places Punjab among the leading states to entrust former women military officers with such responsibilities.

Sources said that after completing the written examination and interview process, the Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC) has shortlisted four retired officers of Lieutenant Colonel rank. Appointment letters are expected to be issued shortly.

The development follows recent amendments to recruitment rules, which now allow former Short Service Commission (SSC) officers to apply for these positions, provided they hold the rank of Lieutenant Colonel or an equivalent or higher rank. Officials believe the change will enable the department to benefit from experienced officers who can serve for longer periods after retirement from the armed forces.

Under existing service conditions, SSC officers can serve in the military for up to 14 years and typically attain the rank of Lieutenant Colonel after around 11 years of service. They generally retire from military service at about 40 years of age. In contrast, Permanent Commission officers usually retire after the age of 54, depending on rank and service tenure.

Women were first inducted into the Indian Army through the Short Service Commission route in 1992. Before that, opportunities for women were largely restricted to medical and nursing services. Over the years, the armed forces have expanded opportunities for women, including granting Permanent Commission in various branches of the Army, Navy and Air Force.

The department currently has one Director-level post, held by an officer of Brigadier rank or equivalent, along with 25 sanctioned posts for officers of Colonel or Lieutenant Colonel rank. One officer is posted in each district, while three officers are stationed at the department’s headquarters in Chandigarh.

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