Assistant Commandant Roshni Devi: Overcoming Obstacles to Fulfil a Legacy of Service
Roshni Devi, an Assistant Commandant, has made an inspiring transition from her hometown in Jammu and Kashmir to leading a prominent parade at a top Central Armed Police Forces training institution in India, showcasing her courage and perseverance in serving the nation.
Originating from Gogore in Vijaypur, Samba district, Roshni Devi completed the 39th Basic Course for Assistant Commandants at the National Industrial Security Academy in Hyderabad. She graduated on June 13, 2026, and was appointed as the Parade Second-in-Command during the Passing Out Parade, a role of significant responsibility.
This appointment was more than ceremonial, symbolizing years of hard work, overcoming challenges, and fulfilling a lifelong dream of wearing the uniform her father once wore.
Carrying Forward the Legacy of a Martyr
Assistant Commandant Roshni Devi is the daughter of Shaheed Havaldar Vijay Kumar of the 2nd Battalion, The Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry, who was killed in action on October 2, 1999, during counter-insurgency operations in Manipur. His service became a pivotal source of inspiration for her.
From a young age, she aspired to follow her father’s footsteps in service to the country. For Roshni, joining a uniformed force wasn't merely about a career; it was about honoring her father's legacy and commitment to national service.
Although her father was not physically present, his legacy guided her through each challenge, providing strength through difficult decisions and setbacks.
The support of her mother and brother was crucial throughout her journey, helping her remain focused during demanding times.
Education and the Foundation of Leadership
Roshni Devi completed her education at Government Higher Secondary School in Vijaypur, followed by a Bachelor of Arts from Government College for Women in Jammu and a Master of Arts in English Honours. Her engagement with the National Cadet Corps played a vital role in shaping her leadership skills.
As an NCC cadet, she obtained the NCC 'C' Certificate and participated in the Republic Day Camp Parade in New Delhi, a significant milestone that bolstered her confidence and leadership abilities.
This experience further fueled her desire to dedicate her life to serving the country.
A Preparation Journey Filled with Narrow Misses
Roshni Devi began her focused preparation in 2018, facing a challenging journey marked by perseverance and self-belief.
She successfully cleared the Combined Defence Services Examination three times and the Air Force Common Admission Test twice, earning five recommendations across Army and Air Force entries from the Services Selection Boards.
Despite these recommendations, she did not make it to the final merit lists, a scenario that many would find discouraging.
Even as she faced these setbacks, Roshni refused to let them define her capabilities or deter her dreams.
She also cleared the Jammu and Kashmir Public Service Commission civil services examination but narrowly missed the final merit list by 12 marks.
Each setback brought her close to success without reaching it, yet she viewed these experiences as steps towards a larger responsibility.
Serving While Continuing to Chase the Dream
Roshni Devi continued to pursue her goals while serving as a Sub-Inspector in the Jammu and Kashmir Police.
Her role enabled her to serve in uniform while still aspiring to become a commissioned officer in a Central Armed Police Force.
Managing her professional duties alongside continued preparation required significant discipline and determination.
Her persistence eventually paid off when she cleared the UPSC Central Armed Police Forces Assistant Commandant Examination in 2023, achieving All India Rank 147. This breakthrough led her to join the Central Industrial Security Force as an Assistant Commandant.
This accomplishment was the realization of a childhood dream, proving that success built on struggle is deeply fulfilling.
Rigorous Training at NISA Hyderabad
Upon joining the CISF, Roshni Devi underwent intense training in the 39th Basic Course for Assistant Commandants at the National Industrial Security Academy in Hyderabad, preparing for various operational and leadership roles within the force.
Her exemplary performance earned her the position of Parade Second-in-Command during the Passing Out Parade on June 13, 2026.
Standing among officers, dignitaries, and families, Roshni represented not only her cohort but countless aspirants who have faced rejection while pursuing their dreams of serving the nation.
The occasion held profound personal significance, marking her emergence as an officer ready to protect the nation, echoing her father's legacy of service.
Recognition for Leadership and Excellence
Roshni Devi's career has been marked by several accolades and recognitions.
She received a commendation at the National Human Rights Commission CAPF National Debate Competition in New Delhi and was praised for her leadership during the Independence Day Parade in 2025.
These achievements demonstrated her communication skills, discipline, and leadership capabilities.
Her journey from an NCC cadet to a commendable officer reflects her growth and dedication to professional excellence.
A Story of Persistence Beyond Rejection
Roshni Devi's journey is inspiring not just for her achievements but for her resilience in the face of repeated setbacks.
Despite being recommended multiple times by Services Selection Boards, clearing several examinations, and narrowly missing the JKPSC merit list, she persevered while serving as a police Sub-Inspector.
She consistently chose to continue, demonstrating that setbacks do not negate potential nor define one's entire life path.
These challenges strengthened her resolve, preparing her for the role she now holds as a CISF Assistant Commandant.
An Inspiration for Young Women
Roshni Devi's story is a powerful message for young women, especially those from smaller towns with limited access to opportunities.
Her journey from Gogore in Vijaypur to a significant role in the CISF underscores that ambition is not constrained by one's background.
Through education, NCC training, examinations, police service, and CAPF training, she built the skills necessary to become an officer, undeterred by setbacks.
Her story highlights that women can lead and serve in challenging uniformed roles, honoring family legacies of sacrifice and national service.
A Message for Defence Aspirants
In her message to aspiring defence personnel and young women, Assistant Commandant Roshni Devi stated:
"True resilience is built when your purpose is greater than your setbacks. Rejections and narrow misses are not the end of the road—they are merely refinement processes. Hold steadfast to your vision of serving the nation, honour your roots, and let your dedication pave the way. No dream is too distant if you have the grit to persist and the courage to walk the path of duty."
These words encapsulate her journey, where she reached her goals not by avoiding failure, but by persisting through it.
From the daughter of a martyr inspired by her father’s uniform to an NCC cadet and finally a CISF Assistant Commandant, Roshni Devi's life is a testament to perseverance.
As she embarks on her career with the Central Industrial Security Force, she carries forward the legacy of her father, Shaheed Havaldar Vijay Kumar, prepared to lead and protect the country with honor.
