In historic moment, first batch of 17 women cadets graduates from NDA
The event, which also saw the graduation of 300 male cadets, marked the passing out of NDA’s first co-ed batch
Marking a significant milestone in the history of Indian defence forces, the first batch of 17 women cadets on Friday (May 30) graduated from the Pune-based National Defence Academy (NDA), alongside over 300 male counterparts.
The event also marked the passing out of the NDA’s first co-ed batch.
Fruit of landmark SC verdict
The cadets went past the ‘Antim Pag’ at the Khetrpal Parade Ground of the tri-service training academy in Khadakwasla, widely known as the “cradle of leadership”.
General V K Singh, former Army Chief and current governor of Mizoram, was the reviewing officer of the Passing Out Parade.
Also read: SC to Centre: If women can fly Rafale, why not more of them in Army legal branch?
The first batch of women cadets joined the NDA’s 148th course in 2022 after the UPSC (Union Public Service Commission) allowed women to apply to the defence academy following a Supreme Court direction in 2021.
Academy cadet captain, Udayveer Negi, commanded the parade of the 148th course.
‘Historic milestone’
“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,” General Singh said on the occasion.
He called the young women passouts an inevitable symbol of “Naari Shakti”, who embody not just women’s development but women-led development.
Also read: 'Let's not bring their morale down in current scenario': SC on women Army officers
“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 said.
Women’s role crucial in Op Sindoor: Rajnath
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday (May 29) had lauded the role of women in the Indian armed forces, especially their contribution to Operation Sindoor.
“Women pilots and other female soldiers played a crucial role in the effective action taken by India against terrorism in Pakistan and Pok during Operation Sindoor,” Singh said while speaking at the flag-in ceremony of the Indian Navy sailing vessel INSV Tarini in Goa.
Also read: How Col Sofiya Qureshi's feats led to a landmark SC verdict on women officers
“From the heights of Siachen to the depths of the ocean, Indian women are fulfilling many responsibilities, which has further bolstered the security circle of the country. Today, the doors of Sainik Schools are open for girls, and 17 women are passing out from the National Defence Academy this month,” he said.