In a historic push for gender inclusivity in the Indian Armed Forces, the government has facilitated the admission of women into the National Defence Academy (NDA). The NDA now welcomes 19 cadets, including 10 for the Indian Army, every six months. Notable milestones in 2023 include the commencement of training for the first, second, and third batches of women cadets in July 2022, January 2023, and July 2023, respectively.
The armed forces have actively implemented administrative, training, and policy changes to support this progressive initiative. The number of women personnel in the three services totals 11,414, with the Indian Army leading with 7,054 women. The Indian Navy achieved a significant milestone by integrating over 1,000 women agniveers, marking a period of noteworthy developments for women in the armed forces.
Notable individuals contributing to this narrative include Lt. Mehak Saini, Lt. Sakshi Dubey, Lt. Aditi Yadav, Lt. Pious Mudgil, Lt. Akanksha, Commander Prerna Deosthalee, Squadron Leader Avani Chaturvedi, Group Captain Shaliza Dhami, Wing Commander Deepika Misra, and Captain Shiva Chauhan, each leaving an indelible mark on the history of women in the Indian Armed Forces.