New Delhi: Lt. H Devika became the first Malayali to lead a mixed contingent of Indian Navy in a Republic Day parade. She was one among the three platoon Commanders who led the contingent on the 75th Republic Day parade held today on Kartavya Path. Devika’s marching troop had 144 members.
For the last three months, Devika has been diligently practicing the parade in the chilly early mornings of Delhi, starting at 3 am. She said she had to face numerous physical and mental challenges but she persevered and executed the parade with precision.
Devika initially aspired to become an Air Force pilot, but in 2018, she took the Navy test and became a sub-Lieutenant. Years ago, she visited Delhi with her father, Harikumar Namboothiri, an Indian Air Force personnel, to watch the Republic Day parade. Inspired by her father, she wished to march like him in uniform and today, her dream has come true. The 23-year-old is currently posted at the Naval Cyber Office in Delhi.
Devika was born in Adoor. Her father, Harikumar, who retired from the Air Force, is now a manager at the Kottayam District Court. Her mother is Kavitadevi.
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