Historic First: 17 Women Cadets Graduate from National Defence Academy, Ushering in a New Era of Gender Inclusion in Indian Armed Forces

In a landmark moment for the Indian Armed Forces and the nation’s ongoing journey towards gender equality, the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Pune witnessed the graduation of its first batch of women cadets.

On Friday, May 30, 2025, 17 pioneering women completed their rigorous military training alongside over 300 of their male counterparts, culminating in a grand Passing Out Parade that marked the end of their journey as cadets and the beginning of their careers as officers-in-training.

The solemn yet celebratory event took place at the iconic Khetrpal Parade Ground in Khadakwasla, home to the NDA – often referred to as the “cradle of military leadership” for the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.

The occasion was momentous not just for the graduating cadets but for the entire country, symbolizing a progressive leap toward inclusivity within India’s armed forces.

Presiding over the Passing Out Parade was General V. K. Singh (Retd.), a decorated former Chief of the Indian Army and currently serving as the Governor of Mizoram. In his address to the gathered audience of military personnel, families, and dignitaries,

Gen. Singh reflected on the significance of the event, calling it a “uniquely significant day in the history of the academy” and commending the courage, determination, and trailblazing spirit of the graduating women cadets.

These women, who joined the NDA’s 148th course in 2022, were admitted into the prestigious institution following a Supreme Court directive issued in 2021.

The landmark ruling prompted the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to open up NDA applications to women for the first time in the academy’s history, shattering a long-standing gender barrier.

This judicial intervention was widely hailed as a transformative step toward ensuring equal opportunities for women aspiring to serve in the Indian Armed Forces at the officer level.

During the parade, Academy Cadet Captain Udayveer Negi led the contingent with precision and pride, commanding the proceedings of the 148th course.

As the cadets marched past the ‘Antim Pag’ – the final symbolic step taken by cadets at the end of their training – emotions ran high among participants and spectators alike.

The march not only symbolized the culmination of intense physical and academic preparation but also the beginning of a new chapter in each cadet’s life as future defenders of the nation.

Gen. Singh praised the women graduates as embodiments of “Naari Shakti” or the power of women, noting that their successful integration into the NDA reflected not just a step toward women’s development but a broader movement toward women-led progress in Indian society.

“These young women are the inevitable symbol of Naari Shakti,” he said, adding that their presence within the NDA demonstrates a tangible shift toward greater inclusivity and empowerment within the defense services.

He also expressed his optimism for the future, saying, “I envision a day not far from now when one of these very women rises through the ranks and takes up the highest leadership roles in her respective service.”

His words echoed the sentiment that this historic development was not merely a symbolic gesture, but the beginning of a larger transformation in the armed forces.

The introduction of women into the NDA is more than a procedural change – it is a powerful statement about the evolving role of women in India’s national security landscape.

It reinforces the idea that leadership, valor, and dedication know no gender, and that the future of the armed forces lies in embracing the strengths of both men and women.

As the 17 women cadets now move forward to their respective service academies for further specialized training, they carry with them the hopes and aspirations of a generation looking forward to a more equitable and representative defense force.

Their journey serves as an inspiration to countless young girls across the country who dream of wearing the uniform and serving the nation with honor.

The 148th course’s graduation is thus more than a ceremonial milestone; it is a defining chapter in the NDA’s legacy and a proud moment in India’s defense history.