Meet Veena Sahumade: The girl from Chhattisgarh’s remote village who made it to the Indian Army

Veena Sahumade, a 24-year-old from a small farming family in Jamarua village, Balod district, Chhattisgarh, has made her mark in the Indian Army by securing a position in the Military Nursing Service (MNS). Coming from a humble background, Veena's achievement is a first for her family, as it is the first time a girl has landed a government job, especially in the Army.

Currently posted in Haryana, Veena returned home after joining the service. She received a congratulatory call from Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, celebrating her success.

In an emotional moment, a video shared on social media captured the heartwarming scene of Veena being welcomed by her parents and the villagers. In the video, Veena, overwhelmed with emotions, salutes her parents.


Veena, speaking to TOI over a phone call, shared her journey: “We are five sisters and it’s usually believed that the girls should be married off at the right age, but my father always boosted my confidence. Two of my sisters are also preparing for exams for a government job. I studied with them and made it to MNS.”

Despite facing financial difficulties, Veena’s determination pushed her forward. She moved from one village to another to attend school and would cycle several kilometers as a 12-year-old girl to reach the nearest school. She completed her nursing course in 2022 and, after coaching, appeared for the MNS exam in 2024. Among the 1,400 candidates for 455 posts, Veena stood out and was selected.

“I felt like it was Diwali celebration at home and in the village when I got selected. I saw my father in tears for the first time. They were tears of pride and happiness. Many girls in our village have now become hopeful about their future and they feel inspired,” Veena said.

Her achievement has sparked a wave of hope in her village, encouraging other girls to chase their dreams.

Inputs from TOI