NEW DELHI/ITANAGAR, Jan 26: Colonel Ponung Doming, a trailblazing officer from Arunachal Pradesh, has been awarded the prestigious Sena Medal (Devotion to Duty) for her exemplary service in the Indian Army. She leads a unit constructing a high-altitude road in Ladakh’s Demchok sector, ensuring critical connectivity to the military’s farthest outpost, Fukche, situated just 3 km from the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. Her unit is also spearheading the upgrade of the Nyoma advanced landing ground near the LAC into a fully operational base for fighter jets.
Ponung Doming, the first woman from Arunachal Pradesh to become a Colonel, has consistently broken barriers throughout her career. Starting her journey in the Indian Army as a Lieutenant in 2008 after graduating as a civil engineer from Walchand College of Engineering, Maharashtra, Doming rose quickly through the ranks, becoming a Major in just four and a half years. She also served with the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2014.
Born in Pasighat to Olom Doming and Jimmi Dai Doming, Ponung pursued her early education at Government Daying Ering Higher Secondary School and IGJ Government Higher Secondary School in Pasighat, where she excelled as a top tribal student in her Class XII exams. Before joining the Army, she worked for two years with L&T in Kolkata. Her journey into the armed forces began in 2008 when she cleared the Service Selection Board and underwent rigorous training at the Officers Training Academy, Chennai.
Doming has always been a source of inspiration for young aspirants, especially women. She encourages the youth of Arunachal Pradesh and the region to “dream big and have the courage to achieve their goals.” Her dedication and humility have made her a role model for many.
The President of India has also approved 305 military decorations for armed forces personnel this year, including 43 Sena Medals (Devotion to Duty), alongside other prestigious awards like the Param Vishisht Seva Medals, Uttam Yudh Seva Medals, and Vishisht Seva Medals.
Colonel Ponung Doming’s recognition reflects her outstanding contributions to the nation and her unwavering commitment to duty. She continues to inspire a generation with her achievements and dedication to the country.(Report by Litem Eshi Ori)
