First batch of women cadets trained at NDA commissioned into armed forces

NEW DELHI: The first batch of women cadets trained at the National Defence Academy have been commissioned as officers in the armed forces, marking a "historic milestone" in the evolution of women's participation in military service, the defence ministry said on Saturday.

The batch of 17 women cadets, who joined the National Defence Academy (NDA) in August 2022 as part of the 148th course, completed their rigorous pre-commission training at their respective service academies, officials said.

The commissioning marked a "defining chapter" in the transformation of the defence forces, reflecting the nation's commitment to equal opportunity, merit and excellence in military service, the ministry said.

Nine officers were commissioned into the Indian Army during the passing-out parade of the 158th regular course held at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, on Saturday. President Droupadi Murmu reviewed the parade.

In the Indian Air Force, five officers were commissioned during the combined graduation parade of the 217th course at the Air Force Academy in Dundigal, Hyderabad, on Saturday, the ministry said in a statement. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reviewed the parade.

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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 in Ezhimala, Kerala, on May 28, the ministry added. Vice Admiral Sameer Saxena, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command, reviewed the parade.

The commissioning marked a "significant milestone in the evolution of women's participation in military service", the ministry said. With their commissioning, these officers have joined the fraternity of military leaders entrusted with the responsibility of serving the nation, it said.

"The achievement stands as a testament to their dedication, discipline and perseverance, and will inspire generations of young women across the country to pursue careers in uniform and contribute towards nation-building," the ministry said.