In a landmark event underscoring India’s commitment to gender parity in its armed forces, President Droupadi Murmu reviewed the Passing Out Parade (POP) of the 158th Regular Course and 141st Technical Graduate Course at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) here today. A total of 515 officer cadets, including a pioneering batch of nine women, were commissioned into the Indian Army, marking the first time women have graduated from the academy in its 94-year history.
The nine women cadets, who trained alongside male counterparts at the National Defence Academy (NDA) before joining IMA in July 2025, received direct permanent commissions, a significant policy shift from the earlier Short Service Commission framework for women officers. This development builds on the 2021 Supreme Court ruling enabling women’s entry into the NDA and reflects the Indian Army’s broader push towards inclusive recruitment and career progression.
Addressing the parade at the historic Chetwode Drill Square, President Murmu, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, described the occasion as a “watershed moment” in IMA’s legacy. “I am especially delighted to see the nine women cadets. This is a watershed moment in the history of IMA. It is not only a milestone in the history of India’s defence forces but also an inspiring example of India’s march towards women-led development,” she said.
The President emphasised the responsibilities awaiting the new officers: “As Army officers, the officer cadets will be responsible for leading, guiding and caring for the soldiers. Their courage and wisdom will be their strengths.” She also highlighted the international dimension of the event, with 34 foreign cadets from friendly nations participating. Their presence, she noted, reflects India’s dedication to fostering friendship, cooperation, and peaceful relations globally.
The ceremony was charged with emotion as families witnessed their loved ones take the “Antim Pag”, the final step into military service. This batch’s success comes amid the Indian Army’s ongoing modernisation drive, where diverse talent pools are increasingly vital for addressing hybrid warfare, technological challenges, and multi-domain operations.
Defence analysts view this as more than symbolic. Integrating women into permanent leadership roles strengthens operational effectiveness, enhances decision-making diversity, and aligns with national goals of women’s empowerment. As India aspires to play a larger role in global security, the IMA’s evolving ethos signals a future-ready force that values merit and inclusion.
The event not only celebrates individual achievement but reinforces the transformative journey of India’s defence establishment. With more women expected to follow, today’s parade at Dehradun sets a powerful precedent for generations to come.
contact: drrajeshjauhri@gmail.com
Dr Rajesh Jauhri is a Journalist with an experience of over 25 years in Indian and foreign media, a Social Scientist, an Ac-complished Author, a Political & Strategic Analyst, a Marksman (Rifle & Pistol), an Orator, a Thinker and an Educationist. He holds a Ph.D. degree on “Impact of colonial heritage on Indian police”. He runs an NGO dedicated to the social and eco-nomic uplift of tribal communities in MP and two decades back, he established a school in a village of Indore district, providing education and moral values to children belonging to underprivileged and minority families. Has received multiple awards in various fields.
