Jammu, March 6: Squadron Leader Neha Devi, an officer in the Indian Air Force from Jammu, embodies discipline, motherhood, and unwavering confidence. She joined the Air Force Academy in July 2013, weighing about 10 kilograms more than the standard. Through relentless effort, she transformed herself within a year and was commissioned in June 2014, emerging fitter, stronger, and sharper.
By 2017, structured running and strength training became integral to her identity. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic, when organized training halted, she maintained her fitness routine at home. In 2021, she participated in her first Airtel Delhi Half Marathon (virtual edition), securing third place in her age category. She continued to be among the top finishers in subsequent years. In 2023, she achieved sixth place in the Station Cross Country (10 km) and third place in the Station Unity Run (21 km), being the only female participant in both events.
In January 2024, Neha became pregnant. What motivated her the most was the realization that many women hesitate to engage in strength training or exercise during pregnancy due to fear or societal pressure. She aimed to change this perception. Under medical supervision, she continued controlled exercise. During her four-month pregnancy, she secured second place in the TCS 10K (virtual).
In September 2024, she gave birth to a healthy baby girl via C-section. Although her recovery was slow and painful, her mission was clear: motherhood should not limit a woman’s potential. While exclusively breastfeeding her daughter for six months, she committed to daily gym sessions or home workouts lasting 40-60 minutes. Balancing late-night feedings, official duties, and recovery, she patiently prepared herself for the challenges ahead.
Fifteen months post-delivery, Neha achieved remarkable milestones through self-training. She participated in several major marathons, showcasing her discipline and hard work. She completed the VDH 2025 Half Marathon in just 1 hour and 35 minutes. At the Kashmir Marathon 2025, she finished in 1 hour and 40 minutes, securing eighth place in the women’s category amidst international athletes, a significant achievement. Additionally, she ran the full marathon at the Adani Marathon 2025 in 3 hours and 42 minutes, earning third place in the defense category.
Moreover, on January 24, 2026, she completed her first 100 kilometers in a 24-hour stadium run in New Delhi, finishing in 9 hours and 52 minutes, just 22 minutes shy of national qualification. Shortly after, she participated in the Indian Navy Half Marathon (February 2), where she claimed first place among all three armed forces and fourth overall in the women’s open category, completing the race in 1 hour, 32 minutes, and 50 seconds, missing the podium by just 43 seconds.
Missing the national record by 22 minutes is not a setback; it signals that with structured training, scientific support, and professional coaching, she could soon represent India on the international stage, proudly wearing the tricolor.
Today, as an Air Force officer, athlete, and mother, Neha also serves as an ambassador for youth and women in Jammu. She inspires young girls to train, believe in themselves, and break old stereotypes. She has proven that motherhood does not diminish capability; instead, it amplifies it.
My name is Narendra Jijhontiya. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including TECHNOLOGY, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
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