At the Indian Military Heritage Festival (IMHF) 2026 in New Delhi, journalist Barkha Dutt hosted a discussion that brought together women officers from the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force. The session, organised by the United Service Institution of India (USI), centred on their participation in landmark global sailing expeditions and the broader role of women in uniform.
Air Marshal Tejinder Singh, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to the Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee (CISC), was present for the interaction and acknowledged the officers’ achievements. The discussion focused on the demands of challenging maritime expeditions and the qualities the participants said were required to serve in such conditions.
The officers shared first-hand accounts of their experiences, highlighting endurance, teamwork and leadership as important factors in meeting difficult tasks at sea. The session also pointed to the expanding presence of women in demanding military adventures and their contribution to India’s maritime profile.
Air Marshal Tejinder Singh also felicitated the participating officers, using the occasion to recognise their courage, resilience and spirit of adventure. The interaction was presented as an opportunity to highlight the accomplishments of women in uniform and the example they may set for future generations.
Another festival session, titled “25 Years of Institutionalising Jointmanship,” was presided over by Air Marshal Tejinder Singh, who delivered the keynote address. He called for stronger cooperation and integration among the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force.
Describing jointmanship as an “article of faith” among the three services, the CISC said there had been notable progress in recent years towards greater military integration. He added that the structural reforms underway were moving in the right direction and were being guided by sound military principles and operational experience.
In his closing address, Air Marshal Tejinder Singh underscored the importance of accurately documenting, preserving and showcasing India’s military history, particularly for younger generations.
The IMHF 2026 served as a platform for military leaders, veterans, historians, journalists and serving personnel to discuss India’s defence heritage, operational experience and the changing military landscape. The Barkha Dutt session was one of the festival’s events highlighting the achievements and contributions of women in the Armed Forces.
