The Indian Army marked a historic milestone on Saturday as nine women cadets were commissioned as officers from the Indian Military Academy (IMA), becoming the first women to graduate from the academy after entering through the National Defence Academy (NDA).
The nine officers are also the first batch of women to receive direct permanent commissions into the Indian Army at the time of commissioning. Earlier, women officers were inducted through the Short Service Commission route and became eligible for permanent commission only after completing a specified period of service.
The landmark commissioning took place during the Passing Out Parade (POP) of the 158th Regular Course and the 141st Technical Graduate Course at the Indian Military Academy in Dehradun.
President Droupadi Murmu, who is also the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, attended the ceremony as the Chief Guest and Reviewing Officer. She reviewed the parade and extended her best wishes to the newly commissioned officers.
Addressing the graduating cadets, President Murmu called upon them to serve the nation with dedication, discipline and patriotism.
“Military officers are not only guardians of the nation’s borders but also custodians of the trust, aspirations and honour of 1.4 billion Indians,” she said.
The President urged the young officers to uphold the highest standards of integrity and leadership while adapting to evolving security challenges and technological advancements.
“In an era of rapidly evolving global security challenges and technological advancements, the Indian Army must continue to embrace innovation, modernisation and adaptability,” she said, urging the officers to lead from the front and maintain a balance between operational effectiveness and the welfare of their troops.
A total of 481 Indian Gentleman Cadets and 34 foreign cadets from 16 friendly countries passed out during the ceremony. President Murmu said the participation of foreign cadets reflected India’s growing international friendships, mutual trust and expanding defence cooperation with partner nations.
Congratulating the newly commissioned officers, the President expressed confidence that they would contribute significantly to safeguarding India’s sovereignty, security and territorial integrity.
-ANI
