Haryana has distinguished itself as the foremost contributor of female cadets to the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Kharakvasla since the introduction of women to the prestigious Tri-Service training institution in 2022. According to data released by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) in Parliament, the state accounts for 28% of the total number of female cadets, with 35 girls having enrolled in the NDA so far.
The MoD’s data highlights the representation of female cadets from various states:
– Haryana: 35 cadets (28% of the total strength)
– Uttar Pradesh: 28 cadets
– Rajasthan: 13 cadets
– Maharashtra: 11 cadets
– Punjab: 5 cadets
– Himachal Pradesh: 4 cadets
Currently, the total number of women cadets training at the NDA stands at 126, representing 17 states and union territories. Notably, a number of states have yet to contribute any female cadets to the NDA’s ranks.
The historic inclusion of women in the NDA began with the first batch entering in August 2022 as part of the 148th course. This significant milestone followed a Supreme Court ruling affirming that women officers granted Permanent Commission should also gain access to NDA training, akin to their male peers. The initial cohort of female cadets comprised 19 participants, allocated across the three services as follows:
– Army: 10 cadets
– Air Force: 6 cadets
– Navy: 3 cadets
This pioneering batch is set to graduate in May 2025 after completing a rigorous three-year military training and academic curriculum.
To bolster the recruitment of female candidates to the NDA, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth outlined an array of initiatives in response to questions from Members of Parliament Niranjan Bishi and Sulata Deo. These steps include conducting awareness campaigns in schools and colleges via Zonal Recruiting Offices and the National Cadet Corps (NCC). Furthermore, there is an emphasis on engagement through print, digital, and social media channels to inform and inspire young aspirants, accompanied by motivational lectures and interactive sessions aimed at encouraging women to pursue careers in the armed forces.
In a momentous event in November 2023, the NDA saw its first female cadets participate in the Passing-Out Parade (POP) alongside their male counterparts. This historic occasion was graced by President Droupadi Murmu, who serves as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces. The successful integration of women at the NDA symbolizes a significant shift towards gender inclusivity within the military, with Haryana leading this progressive movement.
Established in December 1949, the National Defence Academy is the backbone of India’s military officer training. NDA cadets engage in a three-year residential graduation program encompassing humanities and sciences along with fundamental military training. Following this foundational period, they proceed to their respective service academies for specialized pre-commission training. With two batches inducted each year, the NDA trains approximately 350 cadets per course, thus ensuring a consistent influx of well-prepared officers into the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The inclusion of women into NDA marks a transformative chapter in India’s military history, paving the way for a future armed forces leadership that is diversified, inclusive, and merit-based. With Haryana taking the lead in female representation, the increased presence of women in the NDA heralds a new era of gender equality and empowerment within India’s defense forces.
