In a landmark event for India’s military, the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Pune commemorated the graduation of its inaugural batch of female cadets on May 30, 2025. This historic moment marks a significant stride toward gender inclusivity within the country’s defense forces, with seventeen women completing the rigorous and demanding training that the NDA is known for.
The acceptance of women into the NDA was made possible by a Supreme Court ruling in 2021, which opened the doors of this prestigious military institution to female candidates. This decision was widely celebrated as a key advancement in ensuring equal opportunities within the armed forces. The graduation ceremony was attended by senior military officials and various dignitaries, all praising the cadets for their tenacity and strength in overcoming one of the toughest military training programs globally.
Among the graduates was Harsimran Kaur from Punjab, who shared her personal journey transitioning from preparations for engineering entrance examinations to her enrollment at the NDA. “I was told by one of my friends that NDA is open for women as well. Then I thought of giving it a try. I just want to say that don’t be afraid of anything. You can do whatever you want, just believe in yourself and go for it,” Harsimran remarked, delivering an inspiring message of resilience and determination.
The graduation of these female cadets reflects a broader ongoing transformation within the Indian military framework, where the number of women officers has steadily increased—reaching over 9,000 by early 2021. The inclusion of women at the NDA represents a cultural shift, challenging entrenched norms and paving the way for additional reforms geared toward establishing a more inclusive and contemporary defense establishment.
This milestone also mirrors a global trend of increasing gender parity in military forces, as countries across the world continue to advocate for female representation in armed roles. The newly graduated cadets symbolize not only the future of the Indian military but also serve as inspiring figures for young women nationwide, showcasing a powerful message of empowerment, persistence, and progress.
