Meet Captain CR Leena: First Woman To Receive Sena Medal for Gallantry
Captain CR Leena’s story is one of courage, determination, and service. From securing a seat at the prestigious Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC) to becoming one of the earliest women Army officers honored with a gallantry award, she broke barriers in a male-dominated environment.
Later, she transitioned into a successful career in oncology, continuing her mission of saving lives. Her journey reflects the evolving role of women in the Indian Armed Forces and stands as an enduring inspiration for future generations.
Military Career
Commissioned as a lieutenant in the Army Medical Corps (AMC) in 1989, Captain Leena served in challenging postings during the early years of her career. By 1992, she was attached as a Regimental Medical Officer (RMO) with an infantry battalion in Kashmir, a volatile region at the time.
Despite initial hesitation from senior commanders about assigning a woman officer to such a sensitive zone, she chose to remain with her unit out of a sense of duty and camaraderie. During this period, she not only provided medical care to soldiers but also extended her services to local villagers, especially women who had limited access to healthcare.
The Night of Bravery
On the night of July 15–16, 1992, her unit came under heavy fire in an ambush. In the midst of the chaos, she treated critically wounded soldiers under fire, stabilizing them enough for evacuation. In later reflections, she described how she overcame initial fear, adapted quickly, and focused on saving lives despite the life-threatening conditions.
Her courage was officially recognized with the Sena Medal (Gallantry), awarded during the Army Day parade in 1995. This recognition marked her as one of the earliest women officers of the Indian Army to be decorated for gallantry.
Legacy and Civilian Career
After seven years of service, Captain Leena took premature retirement in 1996. She went on to build a distinguished career in oncology, serving at leading institutions including Holy Family Hospital, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre, Rockland Hospital, Fortis Hospital, and Dharamshila Cancer Centre. Since 2016, she has been a consultant in surgical oncology at RGCIRC, New Delhi.
Inspiring Future Generations
Captain Leena’s story is celebrated as an inspiration for women in uniform and in medicine. Discussions on social platforms and in military circles continue to honor her pioneering role, often placing her alongside other notable women such as Shanti Tigga, Neerja Bhanot, and Col. Mitali Madhumita.
Her life is a testament to the belief that valor knows no gender and that professional excellence can thrive across multiple fields of service.
