India, Feb. 22 -- In a landmark decision that could reshape emergency services in the state, the Punjab Government has announced a relaxation of physical norms for firefighter recruitment, reducing the weight-carrying requirement by 20 kilograms for women aspirants.

For decades, the physical test-a criterion mandating the carrying of 60 kg over 100 yards in one minute-had stood as a formidable barrier for female candidates. Last year, 1,400 women applied for only 450 firefighter positions but were met with dismal success, as none could clear the demanding test. The stringent standards, dating back to 1970, have long been criticized as outdated and unsuitable for assessing the actual capabilities required on the job.

Following mounting p...