Dehradun: While reviewing the passing out parade of the 158th Regular Course and the 141st Technical Graduate Course at the Indian Military Academy, Dehradun on Saturday, President Droupadi Murmu marked a watershed moment in the country’s history of defence forces.
The President said that the presence of nine women cadets at the passing out parade is a watershed moment in the history of IMA. They are the first batch of women cadets passing out of IMA after pre-commissioning training for the Army.
She said that as Army officers, the officer cadets will be responsible for leading, guiding and caring for the soldiers.
“It gives me pleasure to see before me the Officer Cadets, who would shortly embark on their journey. Their courage and wisdom will be their strengths. 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 added.
Women were first inducted as officers under the Women Special Entry Scheme in 1992 in Indian Army. Over the years, their role steadily expanded. A defining moment came in 2021 when the Supreme Court allowed women to appear for the National Defence Academy (NDA) examination.
The first batch of women joined the NDA the following year, reported HT.
In 2025, 17 female cadets passed out of the NDA, according to the report, and now nine have passed out of IMA after pre-commissioning training for the Army.
She informed the gathering that Officer Cadets from 29 friendly foreign countries are presently undergoing training at IMA.
The President also said that the presence of foreign cadets at IMA reflects India’s commitment to fostering friendship, cooperation and peaceful relations with nations across the world.