The Nepal Army has long been one of Nepal’s most respected institutions, entrusted with safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty while upholding the values of discipline, courage, and service. In 2006, the Army reached a historic milestone by opening its Infantry branch to women for the first time, allowing female officers to serve in combat roles. This landmark decision marked a significant step toward gender equality and transformed the future of women’s participation in Nepal’s armed forces.

Among the pioneering group of 68 women commissioned as Lieutenants was Major Shanti Moktan Lama, an accomplished officer from the Tamang community. As one of the first women to join the Infantry branch, she broke through long-standing barriers with determination, resilience, and exemplary leadership. Her distinguished career has made her a role model for aspiring women officers and a symbol of progress within the Nepal Army.

Major Lama also made history in military communications by becoming the first female television news presenter and news editor in the Nepal Army. Through her work in news presentation, editing, and public communication, she demonstrated professionalism, accuracy, and dedication while opening new opportunities for women in a traditionally male-dominated field. Her contributions strengthened the Army’s public communication and information outreach.

Throughout her military career, Major Lama has held a wide range of leadership and operational responsibilities. Her commitment and professional excellence earned her deployment to the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS), where she served in transportation and logistics, contributing to Nepal’s internationally recognized peacekeeping efforts. She also participated in Female Engagement Teams (FETs), fostering dialogue, trust, and cooperation with local communities in conflict-affected areas, reflecting Nepal’s commitment to inclusive peacebuilding.

As the first female Infantry Major from the Tamang community, Major Shanti Moktan Lama has become a powerful symbol of women’s empowerment, inclusion, and equal opportunity. Her achievements demonstrate that leadership is defined not by gender, but by courage, competence, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to duty. By excelling in both military operations and strategic communication, she has shown that women can lead and succeed across every dimension of national service.

Her accomplishments are a source of pride for the Tamang community, the Nepal Army, and Nepal as a whole. Through perseverance, professionalism, and a pioneering spirit, she has helped create new opportunities for future generations of women to pursue careers in the military without limitations.

Major Shanti Moktan Lama’s legacy extends far beyond her personal achievements. It stands as a testament to the transformative power of determination, service, and leadership, inspiring future generations to challenge barriers, embrace new opportunities, and contribute meaningfully to their nation. She remains an enduring symbol of excellence, resilience, and progress in the history of the Nepal Army and Nepal.