In a significant milestone for the Indian Armed Forces, the National Defence Academy (NDA) is preparing to graduate its inaugural batch of women cadets on May 30, 2025. This momentous group of 17 women has undergone training alongside nearly 300 male cadets, marking a breakthrough in gender inclusivity within military training in India.
These cadets have engaged in a rigorous curriculum that mirrors that of their male colleagues. Their training encompassed a broad spectrum of activities, including parade drills, horse-riding, swimming, and strategy exercises, all designed to prepare them for the challenges ahead. Among this pioneering group is Ishita Sharma, who, despite coming from a non-military background, embraced this opportunity after the NDA opened its doors to women. She excelled during her training and was honored with the title of Division Cadet Captain.
Reflecting on her experiences, Ishita described her journey at the NDA as transformative. She emphasized how the rigorous training cultivated her confidence and solidified her leadership abilities. “The initial days were tough physically and mentally, but they became stepping stones,” she noted. Ishita expressed gratitude for the equal opportunities afforded to her and her peers, which she feels brought out their full potential.
Another cadet, Shriti Daksh, shared an emotional perspective on her experience. The daughter of a retired Wing Commander, she recounted her father dropping her off at the NDA and how she now stands on the brink of achieving the same rank he once held. “It’s a full-circle moment,” she said, encapsulating the deep personal significance of her journey.
Ritul Duhan, who made history as the first woman Battalion Cadet Captain from this batch, spoke about the broader implications of their achievement. “We’re not just finishing our training—we’re laying the foundation for many more women to follow,” she stated. Ritul acknowledged the NDA’s commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment that nurtures every aspect of a cadet’s development.
Throughout their time at the academy, the cadets emphasized the intense yet rewarding nature of their experiences. Many noted the deep sense of camaraderie that emerged from their shared trials. Several cadets arrived as introverts but departed with lifelong friendships and a renewed sense of purpose.
As these 17 cadets prepare for their passing out parade, they are poised to make their mark in Indian military history as true pioneers. Their successful graduation heralds the onset of a new era in the Indian Armed Forces, one where women are not merely welcomed but are expected to take on leadership roles and contribute to the nation’s defense.
