President Murmu reviews Passing Out Parade at Indian Military Academy with first batch of women NDA cadets
Dehradun, June 13
President Draupadi Murmu reviewed the Passing Out Parade of the 158th Regular Course and 141st Technical Graduate Course at the Indian Military Academy here on Saturday.
The day is being seen as highly significant and historic for the Indian Army and for women in the country, as the first batch of female cadets from the National Defence Academy (NDA) is passing out as commissioned officers.
At the IMA Passing Out Parade, nine female cadets from the NDA's first women's batch will join the Indian Army as officers. Five female cadets from the Air Force Academy at Dundigal in Hyderabad will also be commissioned into the Indian Air Force.
Earlier, the NDA doors were closed to women. Following a landmark Supreme Court decision in June 2022, women were allowed entry into the armed forces training institute, paving the way for greater participation of women in the armed forces.
President Murmu reviewed the parade at the IMA, while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh was present at the Air Force Academy in Dundigal.
A total of 515 cadets are passing out from the IMA this year, including 34 foreign cadets from 16 countries. Among them are the nine brave women cadets from NDA's first female batch, who have completed rigorous training and are now ready to serve the nation.
Under the 217th course of the Indian Air Force, a total of 231 flight cadets from the Flying and Ground Duty branches are completing their pre-commissioning training. This includes 194 male and 37 female cadets. Of these 37 women cadets, five belong to the NDA's first women's batch.
This achievement highlights that women are equally capable of completing tough military training and contributing alongside men in the armed forces.
The combined graduation parade concluded in a grand manner, with spectacular aerial displays by Sukhoi fighter jets, the Sarang helicopter display team, and the renowned Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team being the main attractions.
— IANS
Reader Comments
Finally, the Supreme Court's 2022 decision is bearing fruit. Women in combat roles will strengthen our armed forces. But we need more representation at higher ranks still. Good beginning though. 👏
As someone who served in the US military, I know how tough training is. These women have earned every bit of respect. The Sukhoi and Sarang displays must have been spectacular too. Congratulations to all!
Great to see President Murmu reviewing the parade. The IMA has always produced finest officers, and now with women joining, it's even more special. My only concern is whether infrastructure like separate accommodation is adequate for female cadets. Hope the army has planned well.
Inspiring story! 🇮🇳 When I visited India last year, I noticed how things are changing for women in defense services. 34 foreign cadets from 16 countries also shows India's growing global military partnerships. Well done IMA!
As a woman who always wanted to join army but couldn't due to old rules, this brings tears to my eyes. Especially proud of the 5 women joining IAF. The Surya Kiran display must have been breathtaking! Jai Hind! 🙏
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