Lieutenant Shanan Dhaka has made history as a trailblazer for women’s participation in the Indian Armed Forces. As the highest-ranked woman candidate in the inaugural National Defence Academy (NDA) entrance examination open to women, she successfully navigated the rigorous NDA-to-Indian Military Academy (IMA) training pathway and was commissioned into the Indian Army on June 13, 2026.
At just 23, Lieutenant Dhaka achieved All India Rank 10 in the 2021 NDA examination, leading female candidates in a pivotal historic test that followed a Supreme Court decision allowing women to enroll in the NDA. This momentous occasion laid the foundation for increased opportunities for women in military service.
On her commissioning day, Lieutenant Dhaka stood proudly during the Passing Out Parade of the 158th Regular Course at the IMA in Dehradun, where President Droupadi Murmu celebrated the commissioning of nine women officers from the first-ever batch of female NDA cadets. These trailblazers had joined the NDA in August 2022 as part of the 148th Course, completing a comprehensive three-year training regimen before transitioning to the IMA for final preparations.
Her commissioning signifies not only the completion of intense training but also the realization of a journey that began with the Supreme Court’s landmark ruling. The NDA and Naval Academy Examination conducted on November 14, 2021, allowed women to compete for the first time. With over 5.75 lakh applicants, 1.77 lakh were women—a testament to the growing interest among women in military careers. Dhaka, who initially aimed for the Civil Services Examination while enrolled in a Bachelor of Arts program, shifted her focus to the NDA, ultimately achieving the top spot among female candidates.
Adopting a disciplined approach to her preparation, Lieutenant Dhaka dedicated approximately five hours daily for 40 days leading up to the examination. Her strategic planning and understanding of the exam format contributed to her success, inspiring future defense aspirants.
Growing up in Sundana village, Haryana, Lieutenant Dhaka hails from a family steeped in military tradition. Her grandfather served as a Subedar in the Indian Army, while her father, a retired Naib Subedar in the Army Service Corps, later served with the Panchkula Police. Lieutenant Dhaka’s elder sister is also part of the military, further solidifying the family’s legacy of service.
Having spent her formative years in various cantonments due to her father’s military assignments, she grew up immersed in an environment defined by discipline, responsibility, and respect for the armed forces. These experiences instilled a sense of duty and direction, enabling her to pursue her aspirations with determination.
Lieutenant Dhaka’s academic excellence characterized her school years and college life at Lady Shri Ram College in Delhi, where she completed her studies before seizing the unprecedented opportunity to join the NDA. Following rigorous training at both the NDA and IMA, she acquired the essential skills and leadership qualities required of an Army officer.
After her commissioning, Lieutenant Dhaka is set to begin her first posting in Arunachal Pradesh, where she will lead troops in challenging terrain, emphasizing her readiness to embrace the responsibilities of military service.
In a celebratory ceremony at the Panchkula Police Commissioner’s Office, she was honored by local officials, including Police Commissioner Pankaj Nain, highlighting her family’s pride in her accomplishments. Lieutenant Dhaka recognizes the support of her parents as instrumental in pursuing her ambitions without constraints.
Her outstanding journey serves as a beacon of inspiration for young women from diverse backgrounds who aspire to join the Armed Forces. The establishment of the NDA’s women’s entry marks a significant shift in opportunities, allowing women to receive military training earlier and compete for permanent commissions alongside men.
Lieutenant Dhaka’s achievements underscore the profound changes occurring within the Indian Armed Forces and reflect a new narrative for women in defense roles. As she embarks on her military career, she carries with her the weight of history, hard work, and a commitment to serve, paving the way for future generations to follow in her footsteps.
