Bimla Devi was performing routine checks on passengers at Elephant Pass, a critical location in Sri Lanka.

During the check, she recovered 1,200 detonators from a Sri Lankan woman, marking a significant security breakthrough.

The detonators were likely intended for use in attacks by militants, and their recovery helped prevent potential violence and disruption.

The recovery of such a large number of detonators led to the capture of several militants connected to groups like the Liberal Tamil Tigers or other insurgent factions in the region.

This operation was a critical success in the broader counter-insurgency operations being conducted in Sri Lanka, where the Indian Peacekeeping Force (IPKF) was engaged against militants.

For her bravery and vigilance, Bimla Devi was awarded the Sena Medal, one of India’s highest military honors for gallantry.

The Sena Medal is given to personnel of the Indian Army and other armed forces who show exceptional courage, bravery, and devotion to duty during operations.

The 88th Mahila Battalion is one of the few all-female battalions in the Indian armed forces, designed to provide a specialized force of female officers.

This battalion is tasked with assisting in various operations such as security checks, law enforcement, and community policing.

Female soldiers in this battalion, like Bimla Devi, have made significant contributions to both internal and external security operations, including those in conflict zones.

Bimla Devi’s actions on 31 August 1988 at Elephant Pass demonstrated courage, dedication, and vigilance under challenging circumstances.

Her quick action in recovering the detonators prevented potential attacks and contributed to the capture of militants.

For this, she was rightfully awarded the Sena Medal, a testament to her bravery and commitment to her duty.