On May 30, 2025, the National Defence Academy (NDA) witnessed an important event in Khadakwasla, Pune, when 17 women’s cadets graduated with more than 300 male colleagues, marking the culmination of the 148th course. This historical passage parade symbolises significant progress toward gender inclusion in India’s armed forces. In this article, we have discussed the first female cadets to graduate from the NDA 148th course POP.
Breaking Barriers: The Journey of the First Female Cadets
Following a directive from the Supreme Court in August 2021, it became possible to include women in the NDA, so that women’s candidates could appear for the NDA examination. Then the first batch of 17 women’s cadets joined the Academy in July-August 2022 as part of the 148th course.
These tracked women demonstrated extraordinary flexibility and dedication, passing through the same strict military and educational training as their male colleagues. His successful implementation of a three-year program is an example for women who want to serve in the Indian armed forces.
Academic Excellence and Notable Achievements
Among the candidate cadets, topped divisional captain Shreti Darshan, the Bachelor of Arts Stream, stood out and performed the best in academic skills among the first female batch. His performance emphasises the dedication and hard work that these cadets have invested during their training.
At the convocation held on May 30, 2025, 339 cadets, including 17 women, achieved degrees and certificates from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). The degree spans different subjects, including BSC, informatics, BA and B.Tech.
A Parade of Pride (POP): The Passing Out Ceremony
A characteristic of NDA traditions, the Passing Out Parade was inspected by General V.K. Singh (retired), former Chief of Army Staff and current Governor of Mizoram. The ceremony was characterised by military precision and emotional farewell, as the cadets made their last March from ‘Antim Pag’ on Ketrapal Parade Ground, which symbolised their transition from cadets to commissioned officers.
General Singh appreciated the candidate cadets, emphasising the historical significance of the first female Batch Confirmation. He emphasised both the development of women in the armed forces and the development of women as a symbol of ‘Nari Shakti’ (women’s power).
Looking Ahead: Future Endeavours of the Graduates
Post-graduation will advance cadets to their respective Prior Commission for Special Training: Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun for Army, Indian Navy Academy (IMA) (IMA) (IMA) (IMA) for Navy, and Air Force Academy (AFA) in Dandigal for Air Force.
The successful integration of women’s cadets in the NDA’s strict training program marks a transformation moment in the history of the Indian army, which paves the way for more and more gender inclusion and diversity in the armed forces.
A New Era: The Inclusion of Women in NDA
Following the direction of the landmark Supreme Court in August 2021, these 17 trailblazing women started their journey in 2022, which opened the doors of NDA to women candidates. This decision marked a significant change in India’s military training paradigm and dominated the male cadets. The inclusion of women in the NDA reflects an extensive commitment to gender equality and authority within the Indian armed forces.
During his three annual periods, these cadets received hard training both physically and academically with their male colleagues. Their successful confirmation not only indicates personal performance but also opens doors for women who want to serve in the army for future generations.
Voices of Inspiration: Cadets and Leaders Speak
Divisional Cadet Captain Shreeti Daksh, who topped the Bachelor of Arts stream, shared her experience: “The three-year training here was a mix of emotions. Initially, it took some time to assimilate it, but gradually, I got used to the academy with the help of coaches and staff and assimilated. “Her father, a retired wing commander and former NDA cadet from Hunter Squadron, expressed great pride in their achievements.
General V.K. Review Officer Singh (Retd) for the parade appreciated the achievement of women’s cadets, and described the opportunity as “important and historical”. He emphasised that these cadets are a living symbol of “Nari Shakti”, which not only represents the development of women, but also the development of women. He envisioned a future where these young women may rise to the highest roles in the services they join.
The Road Ahead: Pre-Commissioning Training
After their graduation, cadets will proceed to their respective pre-commercial academies for special training:
- Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun – for Army cadets
- Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala – for Navy cadets
- Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal – for Air Force cadets
This next phase of training will further hone their skills and prepare them for commissioning into their respective branches of the Indian armed forces.
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Legacy and Impact: Setting the Path for Future Generations
The first group of female cadets from the 148th. The course in NDA is not just a symbolic victory – it is a transformative moment that redefines women’s role in Indian defence services. These 17 women are more than just pioneers; They are role models for millions of young girls all over India who dream of donating green, white or blue colours on olives.
His journey, filled with mental cruelty, educational skill, and physical endurance, proves that when opportunity meets preparation, obstacles are encountered. The Indian army, known for its tradition and discipline, has adopted change, and these cadets are an incarnation of that progress.
What It Means for the Indian Armed Forces
- Enhanced diversity: With women now a regular part of NDA training, the forces benefit from diverse perspectives and strengths.
- Balanced leadership: As these women rise through the ranks, they’ll offer leadership rooted in empathy, courage, and strategic insight.
- Motivation for reforms: Their presence will likely accelerate gender-sensitive reforms in infrastructure, policies, and operational roles.
Challenges Ahead
Despite this historic achievement, challenges remain:
- Ensuring equal opportunities in combat and command roles.
- Addressing gender biases at various levels of the defence ecosystem.
- Creating infrastructure that supports the long-term inclusion of women in all areas of military life.
Conclusion: A Salute to Grit and Grace
The NDA 148th course passing out parade will go down in history as the event that redefined the narrative of gender in Indian military institutions. The first female batch has passed out not just with medals and certificates but with the weight of expectation and the promise of transformation.
Their success is not just their own – it belongs to every aspirant who believes in breaking stereotypes, to every officer who believes in meritocracy, and to every citizen who believes in a stronger, more inclusive India.
FAQs about the First Female Cadets Graduate from NDA
Ans. It marks the history of the first group of women cadets from the National Defence Academy (NDA).
Ans. A total of 17 women’s cadets completed training and graduated with NDA 148 Course.
Ans. The Supreme Court’s decision in 2021 allowed women to join NDA, with the first batch entry in December 2021.
Ans. After NDA, they continue for the pre-commercial training related to IMA (Army), AFA (Air Force) or INA (Navy) based on their choice and ability.
Ans. No. Training standards of equality and skill were equally included in academics, physical training and discipline.
Ans. They overcome strict physical programs, mental pressure and social expectations, proving their patience and determination.
Ans. A message about breaking obstacles, courage and commitment – to tell that women are equally capable of leading and serving the nation.