Role of Women in India’s Military

Context

With the graduation of the first batch of 17 women cadets from the National Defence Academy (NDA), Pune on May 29, 2025, a historic step was taken towards gender equality in the Indian Army.

Role of Women in Indian Army

• Initially women were inducted only in the Medical and Nursing Corps, but now they are joining the Army, Navy, and Air Force in various non-combatant and combatant roles.
•  Permanent commission, short service commission, and other entry routes through NDA have increased opportunities for women.
• Steps such as fighter pilots in the Air Force, deployment on warships in the Navy, and promotions up to the rank of Colonel in the Army are important in this direction.
• For example, the press conference regarding Operation Sindoor by Colonel Sophia Qureshi and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh has strengthened the military image of women in the country.
• After the 2021 decision of the Supreme Court, women have got the opportunity to appear in NDA and other military entrance examinations.

First batch of women

• 17 women cadets graduated at the convocation of the 148th course of NDA, which is a milestone in the history of the Indian Armed Forces.
• The cadets were awarded B.Sc., B.A. and B.Tech. degrees from Delhi-based Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU).

Benefits of women joining the army

• Diversity and innovation: Participation of women brings different perspectives to the army, which improves strategy and leadership.
• Gender equality: The inclusion of women makes the army more inclusive and promotes gender equality in society.
• Inspiration: Successful women soldiers become a source of inspiration for other young women.
• National Security: Utilization of more human resources strengthens national security.

Various Recommendations

• Supreme Court (2021): Landmark decision to allow women to enter NDA, which promoted gender equality.
• Uday Shankar Committee (2016): Recommended permanent commission for women in the army, especially in non-combat roles.
• Ministry of Defence Reports: From time to time made suggestions to improve recruitment and training of women, such as improving infrastructure and gender sensitivity training.

Challenges faced by women in the military field

• Gender stereotypes: Male-dominated culture in the army and stereotypes in society create obstacles for women.
• Physical and mental pressure: The difficult conditions of military training and deployment are challenging for everyone, but women face additional social pressure.
• Underrepresentation: The number of women in high-ranking positions is still limited, which affects their career growth.
• Work-life balance: The demands of military life and family responsibilities pose special challenges for women.

Way Forward

• Policy reforms: Ensure equal opportunities for women in permanent commissions and high-ranking positions.
• Structural reforms: Promote gender sensitivity in military facilities, such as segregation and maternity leave policies.
• Awareness and training: Conduct awareness campaigns and training programs to break gender stereotypes in society and the military.
• Incentives: Implement promotional and scholarship schemes to encourage more women to join the military.

Conclusion

The graduation of the first female cadet batch from NDA is proof that women can excel in the military field. However, challenges still remain, which can be addressed through policy reforms, social awareness, and structural changes.