In a significant development showcasing the growing role of women in the Indian Army, approximately 60% of the women commanding officers (COs) are currently leading units in operational areas, including forward locations in the Northern and Eastern Commands, which are crucial for guarding India’s borders. This represents a major milestone in the army’s journey toward achieving gender parity and inclusivity.
Over the past two years, the Indian Army has approved the promotion of more than 145 women to the rank of colonel, following the opening of command roles to them. Presently, about 115 women officers are actively commanding their units, with additional appointments expected soon. Officials have indicated that 15 more women officers will soon assume command roles, further solidifying the army’s commitment to integrating women into leadership positions.
However, this significant advancement has not come without its challenges and controversies. An internal communication from a senior officer regarding the performance of eight women officers in the eastern sector emerged amidst these changes, raising concerns about perceptions within the military. The letter, which highlighted specific issues related to units under the command of women COs—including officer management and general competence—sparked considerable debate about the opportunities and challenges that women in command roles continue to face.
This controversial letter, authored last October by Lieutenant General Rajeev Puri, then-commander of the 17 Corps, was directed to Eastern Army Commander Lieutenant General Ram Chander Tiwari. It referred to an internal review from the Panagarh-based mountain strike corps, focusing on the unique challenges faced by women in their command capacities. The leaking of this communication has prompted extensive dialogue regarding the army’s gender integration policies, reinforcing the necessity to confront any underlying institutional biases.
The shift towards assigning women to command roles is a result of a Supreme Court order issued in 2023, which mandated that the army provide women equal opportunities in roles beyond the medical stream. In response, a special selection board was convened in February 2023, leading to the promotion of 108 women officers to the select-grade rank of colonel. This landmark decision marked a pivotal moment for women in the armed forces, affirming their competence and readiness to occupy leadership positions within select branches.
Colonel Ponung Doming has emerged as an exemplary figure from this changing landscape, recognized for her exceptional service, including receiving the Sena Medal (Devotion to Duty) for her leadership in constructing a high-altitude road in Ladakh’s Demchok sector. This project is critical for ensuring connectivity to the military’s most remote outposts, notably Fukche, located just three kilometers from the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China. Her unit also played a key role in advancing the Nyoma landing ground, transforming it into a fully operational fighter base.
The deployment of women in operational areas signals a transformative change in the Indian Army’s approach to gender inclusivity. While these roles in forward locations indicate a growing acceptance within the force, it is vital that women receive adequate support, fair evaluations, and equal opportunities to demonstrate their abilities. The controversy surrounding the leaked letter emphasizes the need for a cultural shift within the organization to fully embrace this evolution.
As more women officers ascend to leadership roles, they will continue to redefine the narrative surrounding women in the Indian armed forces. The integration of women into higher command positions represents not only a significant stride toward equality but also a strategic initiative to leverage a diverse and competent leadership pool, ultimately strengthening India’s defense capabilities.
