The National Defence Academy (NDA) witnessed a historic moment as its first batch of 17 women cadets officially graduated alongside 300 male cadets during the 148th course Passing Out Parade at the Khetrpal Parade Ground in Khadakwasla, Pune. This milestone follows the 2021 Supreme Court directive that led to the inclusion of women in NDA admissions starting from 2022.
Parade Led by Academy Cadet Captain
The graduation parade was commanded by Academy Cadet Captain Udayveer Negi. General VK Singh, former Army Chief and current Governor of Mizoram, served as the reviewing officer. The cadets crossed the symbolic ‘Antim Pag’, signifying the end of their training and the beginning of their military careers.
Emphasis on Women-Led Progress
Calling the moment a step forward in inclusivity, General VK Singh described the event as a testament to “Nari Shakti”—women’s strength—and highlighted the shift from women’s development to women-led development. He praised the graduating women cadets for breaking new ground in India’s defence forces.
339 Cadets Receive JNU Degrees
A total of 339 cadets received academic degrees from Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU). The degrees awarded included 84 in BSc, 85 in Computer Science, 59 in Bachelor of Arts (BA), and 111 in B.Tech. Among them, 17 were women cadets.
Women Cadets Shine in Academics
Division Cadet Captain Shriti Daksh, one of the women graduates, topped the BA stream. Sharing her journey, she described her three years at the academy as emotionally challenging yet fulfilling, crediting her instructors and fellow cadets for the support. Coming from a family with an NDA legacy, she is proud to continue the tradition.
Computer Science stream topper Cadet Captain Prince Kushwaha acknowledged the change brought by women’s entry into NDA, saying their presence marked a transformative era in the academy’s history.
Leaders of the Future
Poonam Tondon, Vice Chancellor of Deen Dayal Upadhyay University, expressed confidence in the capabilities of the graduating cadets. Addressing the women cadets, she encouraged them to “serve with honour, lead with courage,” and uphold the ideals of the Indian armed forces. She added that the true tribute to NDA would be the honour and recognition these cadets bring through their future service.
