Of the 17 officers, nine were commissioned into the Indian Army during the Passing Out Parade of the 158th Regular Course at the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun. Five officers joined the Indian Air Force at the Air Force Academy’s Combined Graduation Parade, while three officers were commissioned into the Indian Navy at the Indian Naval Academy.
President of India Droupadi Murmu described the achievement as a “watershed moment” in the history of India’s military academies, highlighting its significance in expanding opportunities for women in the armed forces.
The commissioning follows the opening of NDA admissions to women after a landmark Supreme Court decision in 2021. Since then, women cadets have undergone the same rigorous military, academic and physical training as their male counterparts at the prestigious academy in Khadakwasla, Pune.
The successful graduation and commissioning of the first women NDA cadets underscore India’s commitment to equal opportunity and merit-based advancement in the defence services. The milestone is expected to inspire more young women across the country to pursue careers in the armed forces and contribute to national service.
The achievement marks a transformative chapter in the evolution of India’s military institutions, reinforcing the role of women in shaping the future leadership of the nation’s defence forces.