Pioneering Path: Major Rinchen Dolma Kolto, Ladakh's First Woman Army Officer and Skydiver

Major Rinchen Dolma Kolto (Retired) stands as a significant figure in the realms of military service and societal contribution. Celebrated as the first woman Army officer from Leh and the inaugural female skydiver from Ladakh, she serves as an emblem of inspiration for young women aiming to join the Indian Armed Forces.

Her story originates in Spituk, a village near Leh where military presence is a common sight. From a young girl observing uniformed officers to serving a decade in the Indian Army and completing 54 solo skydives, Major Kolto's life epitomizes courage, discipline, and a dedication to service.

Honoured with the Veteran Achievers Award

In June 2026, Major Rinchen Dolma Kolto received the Veteran Achievers Award, bestowed by Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi during his visit to the Fire and Fury Corps in Ladakh. This award further solidified her national recognition.

Major Kolto was one of five veterans recognized for their service and societal contributions, alongside Colonel Tondup Wangail (Retired), Subedar Major and Honorary Captain Sonam Morup (Retired), Subedar Major and Honorary Captain Tashi Chhepal, Vir Chakra (Retired), and Naik Ghulam Haider (Retired).

The group was acknowledged for endeavors that support ex-servicemen, Veer Naris, and military families, including healthcare, skill development, self-reliance, community welfare, and veteran medical care.

The award conveyed a significant message that service to the nation extends beyond active duty, as veterans continue to apply their military values for societal betterment.

For Major Kolto, this accolade marked another milestone in a journey fueled by childhood admiration for those in uniform.

Growing Up Near an Air Force Station

Hailing from Spituk in Leh, Major Kolto grew up near an Indian Air Force base, regularly witnessing the movement of military officers and airmen.

The sight of women officers, in particular, left a lasting impact on her, prompting her to question why girls from Ladakh couldn't pursue similar careers in the Armed Forces.

The 1999 Kargil War proved pivotal, as she observed male and female pilots fulfilling their duties, reinforcing her resolve to wear the uniform one day.

Living in an area associated with military service, she understood the responsibilities and sacrifices involved, seeing the Army not just as a career but as a chance to serve the nation and represent Ladakhi women.

NCC Provided the Foundation

Major Kolto's journey began with the National Cadet Corps (NCC) during her school days, continuing through college.

The NCC instilled military discipline, physical training, and leadership, paving the way for her ambition to become an Army officer.

For students from remote areas, the NCC offered crucial exposure and confidence needed to pursue officer training, bridging informational gaps about military careers.

Her story underscores the vital role of the NCC in preparing youths for potential military service.

Beginning Her Indian Army Journey

Receiving her Indian Army call letter in 2010, Major Kolto completed officer training by 2011 and began active service.

She advanced to the rank of Major over a decade, marking a historic milestone for Leh, where few women had become commissioned officers.

Military service requires physical and mental resilience, with Major Kolto overcoming societal and geographical challenges to excel in a male-dominated field.

Her accomplishments have inspired other women in Ladakh to consider an Army career, showing that determination can overcome perceived barriers.

Becoming Ladakh’s First Female Skydiver

Beyond her military duties, Major Kolto pursued skydiving, driven by her adventurous spirit.

Skydiving demands technical skill and calm under pressure, with solo jumps requiring personal responsibility from exit to landing.

She became Ladakh's first female skydiver, completing 54 solo jumps across India and Dubai, demonstrating that dedication and training can breach historical access barriers for women.

Each jump reinforced her belief in challenging perceived limitations, aligning with her broader philosophy on life.

"Why Can’t I?"

The question "Why can’t I?" has guided Major Kolto through her various achievements, embodying her proactive approach to life.

Rather than letting circumstances dictate her path, she embraced preparation and initiative to pursue her goals.

She advises aspirants to critically assess their interest in a career, particularly in the demanding military, and to prepare for potential obstacles.

Major Kolto emphasizes understanding the demands of a military career, advising against following trends without proper evaluation.

Taking Release After a Decade of Service

After nearly ten years of service, Major Kolto chose to leave the Army to focus on her family and personal life.

Her decision closed her active military chapter but not her service to society, as her values continued to guide her post-retirement contributions.

The Veteran Achievers Award underscored veterans' ongoing roles in supporting their communities and highlighted her pioneering military and skydiving achievements.

Advice for Girls Aspiring to Join the Army

Major Kolto sees great potential for women from remote areas to join the Armed Forces, stressing the importance of structured preparation.

With multiple entry routes available, candidates must pass examinations, interviews, and medical evaluations to join.

She highlights the importance of mental resilience, patience, and positivity, alongside physical fitness, for a successful military career.

Encouraging parental support, she believes families should foster open communication, helping children pursue suitable careers.

Parents are urged to encourage sports and extracurricular activities that build confidence and leadership rather than pressuring academic conformity.

A Powerful Example for Defence Aspirants

Major Rinchen Dolma Kolto's journey offers essential insights for those aspiring to the Armed Forces.

Her career demonstrates that ambition is not confined by geographical isolation. Inspired by nearby officers, she leveraged the NCC, completed military training, and served as a commissioned officer.

Her skydiving achievements illustrate facing fear with preparation and consistency, vital traits for military success.

Post-military, she continues to show that national service transcends wearing a uniform, with lifelong societal contributions.

A Legacy of Courage and Service

Major Rinchen Dolma Kolto has transcended multiple barriers in her remarkable journey. As Leh's first female Army officer, she expanded possibilities for young women in Ladakh, and as its first female skydiver, she proved that unconventional ambitions are attainable through determination.

Her recognition by General Upendra Dwivedi with the Veteran Achievers Award highlighted the enduring contributions of veterans to society.

From Spituk to officer training, to Army service and solo skydives, Major Kolto’s story is driven by the courage to ask: if others can achieve it, why can't she?

Her journey sends a powerful message to defence aspirants and people from remote communities: while background may shape one's start, discipline and perseverance define how far they can go.