India made history on Wednesday as the first batch of 17 women cadets graduated from the Pune-based National Defence Academy (NDA), alongside over 300 male counterparts. This milestone marks the graduation of the NDA’s first co-ed batch, a momentous step towards greater inclusivity in the armed forces.
The cadets marched past the 'Antim Pag' (Final Step) at the Khetrpal Parade Ground in the tri-service training academy at Khadakwasla, which is often referred to as the "cradle of leadership" for its role in shaping future military leaders.
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Academy cadet captain, Udayveer Negi, commanded the parade of the 148th course. "Today is also a uniquely significant day in the history of the academy as the first batch of female cadets pass out from the NDA. This marks a historic milestone in our collective journey towards greater inclusivity and empowerment," Gen Singh said on the occasion. "I envision a future, not far from now, that one of these young women may rise to the highest of roles of the service they go to," he added.
First Female Batch In 2022
Former Army Chief General V. K. Singh and the current Governor of Mizoram reviewed the Passing Out Parade. The first group of women cadets joined the NDA in 2022. This was part of the 148th course. They were allowed to apply after a Supreme Court order in 2021. The UPSC then opened applications for women to join the defence academy.
To honour the changing face of military education, a special magazine called Breaking Barriers: Female Cadets was released by General V. K. Singh at the event. The magazine talks about the experiences, difficulties, and successes of the first group of women cadets at the National Defence Academy.