The first batch of women cadets trained at the National Defence Academy has been commissioned as officers in the Defence Forces, marking a major milestone in women’s participation in military service.
In a statement on Saturday, 13 June, the Ministry of Defence said that 17 women cadets, who had joined the NDA in August 2022 as part of the 148th Course, completed their pre-commission training at their respective service academies before being commissioned.
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, on 13 June. The parade was reviewed by President Droupadi Murmu.
Five officers were commissioned into the Indian Air Force during the Combined Graduation Parade of the 217th Course at the Air Force Academy, Dundigal, Hyderabad, on the same day. The parade was reviewed by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
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Three officers were commissioned into the Indian Navy during the Spring Term 2026 Passing Out Parade at the Indian Naval Academy, Ezhimala, on 28 May. The parade was reviewed by Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command.
With their commissioning, the officers have formally joined the military leadership cadre of the Defence Forces.
The ministry said the development marks a defining chapter in the transformation of the Defence Forces and reflects the country’s commitment to equal opportunity, merit and excellence in military service.
It added that the achievement reflects the dedication, discipline and perseverance of the women officers and is expected to inspire more young women to pursue careers in uniform.
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