In a remarkable display of courage and determination, Major Dr. Dwipannita Kalita has etched her name in the annals of Assam’s history as the state’s first female paratrooper. Serving in the elite Parachute Medical Regiment of the Indian Army, she stands as a shining example of Nari Shakti, breaking barriers in one of the most demanding professions in the country.
A Journey Rooted in Assam
Born in Dhekiajuli, Sonitpur district, into a humble family, Dwipannita’s early years were shaped by modest beginnings. She completed her schooling at Devendra Green Grove English School and graduated with distinction from Darrang College. Her thirst for knowledge took her abroad, making her the first girl from her district to pursue higher studies overseas. She earned her MBBS degree from Manila in the Philippines.
Upon returning to India, she honed her medical skills through an internship at the prestigious AIIMS, New Delhi in 2015. She later gained valuable experience in emergency and obstetrics & gynaecology departments in Delhi hospitals, specialising in trauma care — expertise that would prove crucial in her military career.
Commissioned into the Army
In 2020, Dwipannita was commissioned into the Army Medical Corps as a Captain after being selected from over 100 applicants. Notably, she joined the Army as a married woman in her thirties. Her husband, Dr. Charang Mate, is also an officer in the Army Medical Corps. The couple’s shared commitment to service reflects a powerful partnership in uniform.
Achieving the Paratrooper Milestone
At the age of 34 in 2023, Major Kalita volunteered for the gruelling airborne and paratrooper training at Agra. She successfully completed the rigorous course, earning the prestigious Paratrooper Badge and the iconic maroon beret. This feat made her Assam’s first female paratrooper. She was promoted to the rank of Major in January 2025.
As one of the few Army Medical Corps officers in the specialised airborne unit, her role involves being airdropped into combat zones or disaster-hit areas. There, she is trained to establish field hospitals under challenging conditions, provide emergency medical care, perform life-saving surgeries, and treat trauma injuries in high-risk environments.
Recognition and Inspiration
Her extraordinary achievements have earned national recognition. In August 2025, Major Kalita was featured on the cover of Femina India’s Independence Day special edition, celebrating pioneering women officers of the Indian Army.
Beyond her uniform, Dwipannita is a multifaceted personality. She enjoys fitness, gardening, cooking, listening to soft jazz, and spending time with her pet dogs. Her personal motto captures her spirit perfectly:
“You are not here to fit into a mould – you’re here to break out of it.”
From the small town of Dhekiajuli to the skies above Agra, Major Dr. Dwipannita Kalita’s journey is a testament to resilience, dedication, and the power of breaking stereotypes. She continues to inspire countless young women, especially from the Northeast, to dream big and serve with pride. Assam and the nation salute this trailblazing officer.
Jai Hind! 🇮🇳🪂
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