Key Points
- For the first time in its 75-year history, the National Defence Academy (NDA) will see 17 women cadets graduate.
- The passing out parade is scheduled for May 30, 2025, at the NDA campus in Khadakwasla, Pune.
- This historic batch marks a significant step towards gender inclusion in India’s armed forces.
- The women cadets have undergone the same rigorous three-year training as their male counterparts, excelling in academics, physical fitness, and leadership.
- Their graduation paves the way for more women to join the NDA and serve as commissioned officers in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
Pune: In a landmark moment for India’s armed forces, the National Defence Academy (NDA) is set to witness the graduation of its first-ever batch of women cadets. On May 30, 2025, seventeen trailblazing young women will participate in the prestigious passing out parade at the NDA campus in Khadakwasla, Pune, marking a new era of gender inclusion and empowerment in the Indian military.
A New Chapter in NDA’s Storied Legacy
Established in 1949, the NDA has trained thousands of India’s finest military leaders, but until recently, its doors were closed to women. That changed in 2021, following a historic Supreme Court ruling that mandated the inclusion of women in the academy’s rigorous training program. The batch of 17 women cadets, selected through a highly competitive process, joined the NDA in 2022 and have since undergone the same demanding three-year curriculum as their male peers.
Rigorous Training and Remarkable Achievements
The women cadets have excelled in every aspect of NDA life academics, physical training, leadership exercises, and field drills. Their journey has not only shattered stereotypes but also inspired countless young women across the country to dream of a career in the armed forces.
Brigadier Rajesh Kumar, an NDA instructor, remarked, “These cadets have demonstrated exceptional resilience, discipline, and teamwork. Their presence has enriched the academy and set a powerful example.”
Paving the Way for Future Generations
Upon graduation, the women cadets will be commissioned as officers in the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, taking on roles that were once considered off-limits. Their success is expected to encourage more women to join the NDA and pursue leadership positions in the military.
The Ministry of Defence has announced plans to increase the intake of women cadets in future batches, reflecting a broader commitment to gender equality in the armed forces.
A Proud Moment for the Nation
The passing out parade on May 30 will be attended by top military officials, proud families, and dignitaries from across the country. The event will celebrate not just the achievements of these 17 women, but also the spirit of progress and inclusivity that defines modern India.
The graduation of the first batch of women cadets from the NDA is a historic milestone for India’s armed forces. It signals a bold step forward in the journey towards gender equality and sets the stage for many more women to serve and lead in the nation’s defense.
