In a landmark moment for India’s defence services and gender equality, the first batch of 17 women cadets passed out from the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Pune on Friday, alongside more than 300 male counterparts. The event took place at the iconic Khetrpal Parade Ground, part of the tri-service NDA campus in Khadakwasla, often hailed as the “cradle of military leadership”.

This batch is part of the 148th course, the first-ever co-ed batch, and marks a historic transformation of the NDA into a truly inclusive institution. The graduation of women cadets from NDA is a direct outcome of the Supreme Court’s 2021 directive that mandated the entry of women into the academy, leading the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) to open applications for female aspirants.

A Symbol of Naari Shakti and Empowerment

The event was reviewed by General V K Singh, former Chief of Army Staff and current Governor of Mizoram. He noted the historic importance of the moment, calling it a "uniquely significant day in the history of the academy".

“These young women are the inevitable symbol of Naari Shakti, embodying not just women’s development but women-led development,” said Gen Singh.

He also envisioned a future where one of these women may rise to the topmost position in their respective services, reinforcing the message of equality and empowerment.

From Supreme Court Directive to Reality

This momentous graduation ceremony is the culmination of efforts initiated by the Supreme Court ruling in 2021, which directed the NDA to allow women cadets. Previously, the entry of women into defence forces at the officer level was only through academies like OTA (Officers Training Academy) or AFCAT (Air Force Common Admission Test). NDA had remained a male-only institution for over seven decades.

Following the judgment, in 2022, the first batch of women joined the NDA, forming part of the 148th course. These cadets underwent rigorous three-year military training in line with their male counterparts, encompassing academics, physical training, leadership exercises, and inter-services integration.

Academy Cadet Captain Leads the Parade

The parade for the 148th batch was commanded by Academy Cadet Captain Udayveer Negi, showcasing unity and coordination among the cadets. The ceremonial “Antim Pag” or the “Last Step,” a military tradition symbolising the transition from cadet to officer, was performed by all graduating cadets, including the 17 pioneering women.

Importance of NDA in India's Defence Infrastructure

The NDA is one of the most prestigious military institutions in the world and serves as a joint services academy where cadets from the Army, Navy, and Air Force train together before moving on to their respective service academies. The entry of women cadets into such a foundational institution marks a paradigm shift in Indian military culture and enhances the scope of gender integration.

Aspirations and Future Prospects for Women Officers

The successful passing out of the first batch sends a powerful message to aspiring young women across the country that careers in the defence services are no longer restricted by gender. The cadets from this batch will now proceed to specialised training at their respective academies – Indian Military Academy (IMA), Air Force Academy (AFA), or Indian Naval Academy (INA) – before being commissioned as officers.

Their roles in the armed forces will likely mirror the training they have received – in combat, intelligence, logistics, and leadership positions, thereby setting the path for future female combat leaders.

Political and Social Reactions

The graduation ceremony has drawn praise from political leaders, defence analysts, and social organisations advocating for gender parity in armed services. It is seen as a key win in the larger battle for equal opportunity and recognition in traditionally male-dominated spheres.

UPSC and Policy Changes That Enabled This Transformation

The UPSC quickly revised its eligibility criteria and syllabus post the Supreme Court verdict to ensure a level playing field for women aspirants. Additional measures were taken at NDA to ensure infrastructure and security for female cadets including separate accommodation, medical facilities, and tailored physical training regimens without compromising military standards.

Empowering Generations to Come

The 17 women graduating today have laid the foundation for future generations of female cadets. Their success is expected to inspire young girls from diverse backgrounds to dream of donning the uniform. With initiatives like the induction of women into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force and permanent commissions for women officers, the NDA graduation is yet another milestone in this journey.

Conclusion

The graduation of the first batch of women cadets from NDA is a historic event symbolising India’s growing commitment to inclusivity and gender equality in the armed forces. As these young women step into the professional world of defence, they not only break barriers but also forge a new future for the Indian military.

Their journey has only just begun, but the impact of their success will resonate for decades, both within and outside the defence establishment. The NDA has now firmly positioned itself as a progressive and inclusive institution, reflecting the values of a modern, empowered India.

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