Ist woman PCS officer honoured with Lifetime Achievement Award

Kamla Dalal Chaudhry, the first woman to pass the Punjab Civil Services (PCS) Examination in 1961 from Joint Punjab (before 1966), was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award by her alma mater, SCD Government College, Ludhiana, on March 8. Although 86 years old, Chaudhry could not attend the ceremony in person but had an inspiring conversation with members of the Alumni Association, where she shared details of her remarkable journey.

The award was presented to Chaudhry by the Alumni Association and the college to celebrate her outstanding contributions. Brij Bhushan Goyal, Alumni Organising Secretary, and Prof Geetanjli Pabreja, Alumni Coordinator from the College, spoke about her exceptional achievements to inspire the younger generation.

Chaudhry’s journey is one of brilliance and perseverance. Known for her intelligence and inquisitive nature, she excelled in various fields, beginning her educational journey by topping her matriculation exams in the Ambala Division, which was part of Joint Punjab at the time. After completing her FA from Amritsar and BA from Government College for Women, Ludhiana, in 1959, she went on to earn a Master’s in English from the same institution in 1961.

In 1963, Kamla Chaudhry made history by topping the Punjab Civil Services (PCS) examination, becoming the first woman from Joint Punjab to achieve this feat. Later, while in service, she also completed her LLB Examination.

Her dedication to learning and excellence extended beyond academics. At the age of 10, Chaudhry participated in the National Volunteer Corps Training Programme and stood first in military drill and the use of a 303 rifle. She went on to shine in revolver shooting and horse riding during her PCS training at the Police Training School in Phillaur, Punjab.

Chaudhry’s professional career saw her rise through various positions, including serving as Director of Industrial Training, Labour Commissioner, Director of Social Welfare and Secretary of Labour and Employment. She was promoted to the Indian Administrative Service (IAS) in 1977. After retirement in 1998, she settled in Gurgaon and continued her social work, particularly focusing on girl education, self-help groups and artisans.

Her husband, Dr AC Chowdhary, a retired general surgeon and former Director of Health Services in Haryana, and her two children – a senior corporate lawyer daughter and a son serving as a senior civil servant – have all continued her legacy of service.

Although Chaudhry could not attend the event, her award was received by Prof Kamlesh Kalia and OP Verma on her behalf. The event was graced by the Alumni Association executives, including SS Bhogal and Padma Shri Onkar Singh Pahwa, also alumni of the college. Chaudhry continues to dedicate her time to social causes and hopes to inspire younger generations, particularly girls, to excel and become the pillars of their families and society.