“Riding makes us fit, alert and confident,” says T. Subhadra, who hails from Kadapa. “We were initially hesitant around horses, but the bond we built during training was incredible. Horses think like us.
Hyderabad: Two months into patrolling the city on horseback, a group of ten Armed Reserve (AR) women constables are now part of Hyderabad’s mounted police wing – a space long dominated by men.
Trained in equestrian skills and deployed near locations like Charminar, Mecca Masjid and Necklace Road, and even during Assembly sessions, these officers say the role has transformed them physically, mentally and emotionally.
“They were trained at our mounted unit in Goshamahal for over two months,” said City Armed Reserve DCP Rakshita Krishnamurthy.
Their duties mainly involve bandobast at Mecca Masjid and Charminar to VIP movement, patrolling around lakes, and even guard of honour salutes. “We don’t treat them as women officers, we treat them as officers,” DCP Krishnamurthy added.
The initiative was introduced by Hyderabad police commissioner C.V. Anand a year ago.
“Riding makes us fit, alert and confident,” says T. Subhadra, who hails from Kadapa. “We were initially hesitant around horses, but the bond we built during training was incredible. Horses think like us. Which means if we stay calm, they stay calm.”
For many, like Subhadra, the opportunity came unexpectedly. “We were given a choice, and 10 of us stepped up. The training was tough and we had injuries, we fell, but the support from our trainers and seniors kept us going,” she says.
Her horse, named Golden Cabbalo, is affectionate but temperamental. “He remembers me instantly, but is like an angry young man. I love him,” she smiles.
Elaborating her experience, Constable Marri Havanthika said, “I was surprised when I learnt women were being taken into the wing. It felt like a dream,” she says. “When the public sees us on horseback, they take videos, click pictures. Some even say, ‘Look! An akka (sister) in uniform on a horse!’ That pride is unmatched.”
Despite initial scepticism from family and friends, the women say they now feel more respected, both inside and outside the department. “We are treated as equals by our male colleagues. They even give us tips and help us ride better,” adds Havanthika.
Though physically demanding, the department is working towards backing women officers. “We’re offering nutrition guidance and have a woman doctor to counsel them. We’re also planning to set up a crèche soon so officers can bring their children along,” said Krishnamurthy.
Subhadra says more women should step into such roles. “Be confident. Don’t be afraid. This job gives you strength, happiness, and a deep bond with animals. That changes everything.”
