Pune, March 8 -- In a groundbreaking move, the Indian Army's Southern Command War Memorial in Pune has appointed an all-female team of guides to lead visitors through the memorial's rich military history.

This pioneering initiative promotes women's empowerment, challenges traditional gender roles, and highlights women's evolving role in preserving and narrating India's military heritage.

The team consists of four women: Vijaya Sakpal, a Veer Nari (war widow); Sharda Umbarkar, wife of an Indian Army veteran; and Kalyani Bhosale and Mukta Chavan, spouses of serving soldiers. These women have broken stereotypes by taking on a profession traditionally dominated by men.

Their role extends beyond tour guiding; they serve as storytellers of I...