First NDA-trained women officers commissioned into Indian Armed Forces in historic milestone
First NDA-trained women officers commissioned into Indian Armed Forces. (Image courtesy: X/@rashtrapatibhvn)
New Delhi: The first batch of women cadets trained at the National Defence Academy (NDA) has been inducted into the armed forces as officers in a historic moment for India’s Armed Forces, a major stride towards greater gender inclusivity in the military.
The batch of 17 women cadets joined NDA in August 2022 as part of the 148th Course and became the first women to receive tri-service training at the premier military academy. After completing their intensive military training, they have now been inducted into the Indian Army and Indian Air Force.
Nine women officers were commissioned into the Indian Army during the Passing Out Parade of the 158th regular course at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, on Saturday President Droupadi Murmu reviewed the parade and described the occasion as a watershed moment in the history of the IMA and India’s defence forces.
While addressing the newly commissioned officers, the President said the achievement was not only a milestone for the Armed Forces but also an inspiring example of India’s progress towards women-led development. She expressed confidence that many more women cadets would follow in their footsteps.
The remaining women cadets were commissioned into the Indian Air Force during the combined graduation parade at the Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal, Hyderabad. The parade, reviewed by defence minister Rajnath Singh, witnessed the commissioning of 231 Flight Cadets, including 37 women officers.
Congratulating the graduating officers, Rajnath Singh highlighted the increasing role of women in strengthening the operational capabilities of the Air Force. He said the growing presence of Nari Shakti was making the force more robust, balanced, and representative of the nation’s aspirations.
The commissioning of the first NDA-trained women officers marks the culmination of a historic journey that began after women were allowed entry into the NDA following a landmark Supreme Court directive. Their successful graduation is expected to pave the way for greater participation of women across all branches of the Armed Forces.
Earlier, the Indian Navy had also witnessed a significant milestone in women’s participation when 66 women trainees were among the 311 cadets who passed out from the Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala, during the passing out parade held on May 28 (Thursday). The event reflected the steady growth in opportunities for women in all India’s military services.
The entry of the first NDA women cadets marks a new chapter for the Armed Forces, and the expanding role of women in shaping the future of India’s military leadership.
