Battalion Cadet Captain Ritul Duhan: Leading the Charge at the National Defence Academy

The National Defence Academy (NDA) recently reached a historic milestone by inducting its first batch of female cadets—marking a new era in Indian military history. Among these pioneering young women is Battalion Cadet Captain (BCC) Ritul Duhan, a trailblazer who exemplifies courage, leadership, and unwavering dedication to service.

Breaking Barriers: A Historic Entry

In 2021, for the first time in its 75-year history, the NDA opened its gates to women. This landmark move paved the way for aspirants like Ritul Duhan from Hisar, Haryana, to pursue their dreams of donning the uniform. A passionate sportsperson and accomplished state-level debater, Ritul has always stood out for her all-round excellence.

“I felt privileged to be part of the first-ever female cadet course. It’s a historic step, and we carry the responsibility to set the right example,” says Ritul, reflecting on the significance of this groundbreaking opportunity.

Life at NDA: A Day in the Life of a Leader

The NDA’s rigorous schedule demands mental toughness and physical endurance. Ritul’s day begins before sunrise, starting with the NDA prayer and honour code, fostering unity and discipline. Here’s a glimpse into her daily routine:

• Morning Drills: Outdoor physical training to build stamina, coordination, and team spirit.
• Academic Classes: Cadets pursue their bachelor’s degrees alongside military training.
• Midday Meals & Recreation: A breather that promotes camaraderie and prepares cadets for the second half of the day.
• Afternoon Activities: Games, PT, and structured exercises to hone fitness and sportsmanship.
• Evening Routine: Study periods, schedule reviews in the Ante Room, dinner, and personal reflection time.

This carefully designed structure molds cadets into effective leaders—instilling discipline, resilience, and responsibility.

The Journey to NDA: A Dream Turned Reality

Ritul’s desire to serve her nation led her to leave engineering after her first year and pursue a more meaningful path. Inspired by the legacy of the NDA, she began preparing for the entrance exam. Her dedication paid off—she cleared the exam with flying colours, making her parents beam with pride.

“I saw the pride in their eyes—that’s when I knew I was on the right path,” she says. That moment solidified her calling.

Facing the Unknown: Overcoming Challenges

As one of the first female cadets at NDA, Ritul faced several challenges—from adapting to a male-dominated environment to breaking traditional expectations. The initial transition wasn’t easy, but over time, both cadets and staff adjusted with mutual respect and cooperation.

Key changes introduced to support this transition included:

• Tailored physical training modules to accommodate physiological differences.
• Equal access to camps, sports, and leadership opportunities.
• Mentorship programs to guide junior female cadets through the rigorous system.

These efforts have created a more inclusive and supportive environment, reshaping the culture of NDA for the better.

Leadership in Action: Guiding the Way Forward

As Battalion Cadet Captain, Ritul holds one of the highest cadet appointments at NDA—a testament to her leadership skills and discipline. She sees her role not just as a position of responsibility, but as a symbol of possibility for future generations of female leaders.

“We’re not just training; we’re setting the stage for those who come after us,” she shares. Through motivational sessions and mentorship, she continues to inspire other young women to aim high and join the forces.

More Than Military: A Platform for Holistic Growth

For Ritul, NDA is more than just military training—it’s a transformative journey. She underscores the academy’s emphasis on academic excellence alongside physical and leadership development.

A math enthusiast, she attempted 117 questions in the NDA exam and scored over 250 marks in that section alone—highlighting her academic strength. “The NDA prepares you for life, not just for a career. It pushes your limits and helps you evolve beyond what you thought possible,” she says.

Looking Ahead: A Future in Uniform

As she nears the end of her training at NDA, Ritul is eager to take the next step. Upon graduation, she will proceed to her respective service academy for specialized military training before commissioning into the Indian Armed Forces.

“I’m excited for what lies ahead. I want to serve my country with honour, courage, and commitment,” she affirms.

A Message to Future Aspirants

To all the young women eyeing a future in the armed forces, Ritul offers heartfelt advice: “If we could do it, you can too. NDA will transform you—mentally, physically, and emotionally. It will teach you to stretch beyond your limits.”

Battalion Cadet Captain Ritul Duhan’s inspiring journey is not just a personal triumph—it’s a beacon of change. As she stands ready to graduate with the first batch of female cadets, she leaves behind a legacy of courage, resilience, and leadership, opening doors for countless others to follow.