Colonel Seema Mishra has made history as she assumes the role of principal at the Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey Uttar Pradesh Sainik School in Lucknow, becoming the first woman to hold this prestigious position in the institution’s 65-year history. Her appointment marks a significant milestone for the school and reflects the growing involvement of women in leadership roles within India’s defence education system.
Seema Mishra, an officer of the Army Educational Corps (AEC), took over from Colonel Rajesh Raghav, who had served as principal since January 2021. Following her appointment, Seema Mishra laid a wreath at the War Memorial, addressed the cadets and staff in the school auditorium, and interacted with the alumni, signalling the start of a new chapter in the school’s legacy.
With over 22 years of dedicated service in the Indian Army, Seema Mishra brings a wealth of experience to her new role. She was commissioned into the Army Educational Corps in 2003 and has served in several important positions, including as the administrative officer at Rashtriya Military School, Belgaum, and as vice-principal at Sainik School, Kapurthala. Her commitment to the Army and education earned her both the Chief of Army Staff and Vice Chief of Army Staff Commendation cards.
Seema Mishra’s personal story is one of resilience and courage, as she is the wife of martyr Major Nitesh Roy, who was killed in Afghanistan in 2010. Major Roy was posthumously awarded the Shaurya Chakra for his bravery.
The Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey Uttar Pradesh Sainik School, established in 1960, is a prestigious institution known for its rich history of military education. In 2018, it became the first Sainik school in India to admit girl cadets, taking a significant step toward inclusivity and gender equality in military training. Seema Mishra is now focused on maintaining the school’s legacy while aiming to increase the number of students qualifying for the National Defence Academy (NDA).
Her appointment is a significant moment not only for the school but for women in defence education, breaking barriers and setting a new precedent for future generations. As the first woman principal of this prestigious institution, Seema Mishra’s leadership promises to take the school to greater heights, reinforcing its commitment to excellence in shaping future leaders of the Indian Armed Forces.
