Currently, according to sources in the defence and security establishment “the proposal to induct women as jawans is in an advanced stage of development.”

Women As Jawans via Agnipath Scheme

In a significant stride towards gender inclusivity, the Indian Army is actively contemplating the enlistment of women in roles as jawans, marking a further expansion of their presence within the military. This progressive initiative follows their successful integration into the Corps of Military Police.

Currently, according to sources in the defence and security establishment “the proposal to induct women as jawans is in an advanced stage of development.” Adding, “It is worth noting that these potential recruits will enter the armed forces through the Agnipath Scheme, which has been the established avenue for soldier-level enlistment since June of the preceding year.”

The Indian Army, an organization comprising approximately 13 lakh personnel, is traditionally categorized into three distinct branches: combat arms, combat support arms, and services. Combat arms include divisions like infantry, armoured units, and mechanized infantry. Combat support arms encompass artillery, engineers, air defence, army aviation, and military intelligence. Finally, services include the Army Service Corps (ASC), Army Ordnance Corps (AOC), Corps of Electrical and Mechanical Engineers (EME), and Army Medical Corps (AMC).

Sources quoted above highlighted that the enlistment of women at the soldier’s level will primarily occur in arms and services where women officers have already been stationed. Earlier this year, the Army marked a milestone by opening its artillery wing to women officers, signalling a growing commitment to diversifying the roles of women within the armed forces.

At present, there are approximately 1700 women officers serving across ten arms and services within the Indian Army. These roles encompass a wide range of responsibilities, including service in the Corps of Engineers, Corps of Signals, Army Air Defence, Army Service Corps, Army Ordnance Corps, Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers, Army Aviation Corps, Intelligence Corps, Judge Advocate General Branch, Army Education Corps, and the Armed Forces Medical Services.

This expansion of opportunities for women underscores the Indian Army’s ongoing dedication to promoting gender diversity and inclusivity within its ranks, in line with contemporary societal expectations and evolving global military trends. As the proposal to recruit women as jawans progresses, it not only paves the way for greater gender equality but also signifies a broader commitment to modernization and progress within the Indian military.