Aman Arora Unveils INR 2.46-Crore State-of-the-Art Hostel for NDA Aspirant Girls at Mai Bhago AFPI
The newly constructed hostel is built at a cost of INR 2.46 crore.
Aman Arora Unveils INR 2.46-Crore State-of-the-Art Hostel for NDA Aspirant Girls at Mai Bhago AFPI
Aman Arora, Punjab Employment Generation, Skill Development and Training Minister, inaugurated a state-of-the-art accommodation block for girl cadets at the Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute (AFPI) in SAS Nagar (Mohali) on Friday. This is a significant step towards strengthening opportunities for young women aspiring to join the Indian Armed Forces. According to officials present at the event, the facility forms a key part of the NDA Preparatory Wing for Girls, which the Punjab Government launched in July 2023.
The newly constructed hostel is built at a cost of INR 2.46 crore. It has been named after Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, India’s first Field Marshal and a military icon born in Amritsar. By dedicating this building to Manekshaw, the state aims to inspire future officers with a legacy of discipline, courage, and leadership.
Speaking at the ceremony, Aman Arora said that the modern accommodation block was designed as a comprehensive residential and training facility, equipped with a cyber lab, indoor shooting range, and a fully equipped fitness hub. He added that these amenities will create a “focused and supportive environment” for 40 girl cadets training for the National Defence Academy (NDA). Arora emphasised that the Mann-led Punjab Government is committed towards providing young women with every possible resource to excel in defence careers.
The minister also assured full administrative support to the institute. He noted that the NDA Preparatory Wing has already received a strong response from girls across Punjab who aspire to serve as commissioned officers.
During the event, many outstanding cadets were felicitated, including Sehjaldeep Kaur, who, as per the institute’s administration, made history by securing the highest-ever marks in the SSB interview across India — among both boys and girls. Officials highlighted that this achievement marks a milestone for Punjab and a proud moment for the institute, which is known for nurturing discipline and leadership.
Addressing the cadets, Arora said that the government aims to “provide a launchpad for the dreams of our daughters to soar high,” adding that Punjab’s girls are “second to none” and fully capable of leading from the front in the armed forces.
This initiative marks a new chapter in Punjab’s ongoing efforts to empower girls to pursue defence careers and contribute towards national service.