Helen Mary Roberts Makes History as Pakistan's First Christian Female Brigadier

Dr. Helen Mary Roberts becomes the first Christian woman to achieve the rank of brigadier in the Pakistan Army, marking a historic milestone for minority communities in the country.

Dr. Helen Mary Roberts, serving in the Pakistan Army Medical Corps, has made history by becoming the first woman from the Christian minority community to be promoted to the rank of brigadier in Pakistan. This significant achievement was reported by The News on Sunday, following the recent promotions approved by the Selection Board.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended his congratulations to Brigadier Helen, expressing pride in her accomplishment and recognizing the contributions of thousands of hardworking women from minority communities serving the country. He stated, "I myself and the nation congratulate Brig Helen Mary Roberts on getting the honour of being the first female from a minority to be promoted as Brigadier in the Pakistan Army."

Brigadier Dr. Helen is a senior pathologist with 26 years of dedicated service in the Pakistan Army. Her promotion not only highlights her personal achievements but also underscores the evolving inclusivity within Pakistan's military institutions.

During a Christmas celebration at Christ Church in Rawalpindi last year, Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir praised the contributions of minority communities to the nation's development. His comments reflect a broader recognition of the diverse groups that play crucial roles in Pakistan's progress.

According to data from the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics in 2021, Muslims constitute 96.47% of the population, followed by Hindus at 2.14%, Christians at 1.27%, Ahmadi Muslims at 0.09%, and others at 0.02%. Dr. Helen’s promotion is a significant step towards greater representation and acknowledgment of minority communities in the country.

Dr. Helen’s historic promotion serves as an inspiration and a reminder of the valuable contributions of minority communities to Pakistan. Her achievement is celebrated by many as a positive sign of progress and inclusivity within the nation.