In a groundbreaking step toward gender equality, 17 women cadets graduated from the National Defence Academy, marking the first time women completed the prestigious tri-services training program in India. Following a 2021 Supreme Court ruling mandating women’s admission to NDA, a pathway has been opened for women to ascend to top military leadership roles, potentially as service chiefs, in the Indian army.
The journey began with the Military Nursing Service in 1888 under British rule. Then in 1958 started the regular commissions for women doctors. Non-medical roles opened up in 1992 via the Women Special Entry Scheme. Permanent Commissions, however, were limited until 2008. A landmark Supreme Court decision granted women eligibility for permanent comissions and command roles thereby rejecting gender stereotypes.
By 2022, NDA admitted 126 women cadets to train in gender neutral environments alongside their male counterparts. These women shared routines, uniforms, and responsibilities with men on equal footing across all 18 squadrons. An integral part training to equip these women for a 35 to 40 year career run that is essential in achieving senior ranks.
Former Chiefs of Army Staff General M.M. Naravane and General V.K. Singh also expressed their pride and optimism about women leading as service chiefs on social media platforms X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook. Gen. Singh noted their seamless integration during the 2024 passing-out parade. It is now a step in the right direction. Women can now access combat roles in artillery and aviation. Captain Abhilasha Barak, the first woman combat aviator, is a prime example to the evolution of the armed forces.
Challenges however, persist. Take for example Lieutenant General Puri’s letter that brought to light perceived issues with women commanding officers, including their ‘lack of empathy’, entitlement and even tendency to complain. This started a long debate on gender bias.
Right now reforms are necessary in maternity policies, spousal postings, and promotion criteria to support work-life balance and career progression. However, the path for an Indian women to be an army chief in the near future has been simplified.
