Future Lieutenant Mukta Singh: First Female Bronze Medallist at OTA Gaya
Battalion Under Officer (BUO) Mukta Singh is poised to make history as the first female cadet to receive the Bronze Medal at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Gaya. She will be officially honored with this recognition during the Passing Out Parade scheduled for September 6, 2025.
Mukta Singh's path to this achievement was fraught with challenges. After being twice merit-out, she secured the All India Rank 1 (AIR-1) on her third attempt at the Short Service Commission (SSC) Technical Women-32 Course. Initially beginning her training at OTA Chennai, she was transferred to OTA Gaya and became the sole relegated female cadet due to a severe knee injury.
Despite these hurdles, Mukta demonstrated exceptional leadership, ascending through ranks such as Academy Under Officer (AUO), Junior Under Officer (JUO), and ultimately Battalion Under Officer (BUO). Excelling both physically and academically, she topped several training assessments, showcasing her skills and resilience.
Her determination led to a significant achievement, as she will be the first woman to receive the Bronze Medal at OTA Gaya, placing third in overall merit among her peers. This accomplishment is a source of pride not only for her family but also for the Indian Army, as it represents a step forward in gender equality within the military.
Since its expansion in 2023, OTA Gaya has become an essential center for technical entry training, responding to India's increasing regional security demands. With a highly competitive selection process, where only 1–2% of applicants succeed, Mukta's triumph underscores both the academy's stringent standards and her indomitable spirit.
As the Indian Army continues to open more pathways for women officers, Mukta Singh's achievement is expected to inspire many young women in India who aspire to join the military. Her success stands as a milestone in the nation's military history, reflecting the Army's commitment to inclusivity, resilience, and leadership development.
