Indian Army Advocates for Gender Neutrality in Enhancing Women’s Military Roles
In a notable assertion concerning the integration of women into the Indian Army, Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi highlighted the force's commitment to gender neutrality, surpassing the notion of mere equality. He expressed that the Army is prepared to induct women into infantry roles, pending societal acceptance, during his annual press conference on January 13, 2026. During this event, he discussed ongoing initiatives to enhance women's participation in various military roles.
General Dwivedi emphasized that women should not be viewed as a "vulnerable commodity" but as capable individuals requiring rigorous standards. He remarked, "If standards are same, if capabilities are same, and in India as a nation, society is ready to accept it, it (combat role) can be done tomorrow." This statement underscores the Army's balanced approach, taking into account both operational needs and social progression.
The Army Chief further explained that achieving uniform standards is currently hindered by medical authorities and team composition constraints, which limit full gender neutrality. He stated, "Today, I am not able to ensure gender neutrality because there are medical authorities which do not allow me and the team of composition, where the females also say no, sir, it's not possible." Despite these challenges, he remains optimistic about future changes, citing initiatives like the Common Physical Test (CPT) 26, where efforts to standardize have been made but not yet fully achieved.
Looking to the future, General Dwivedi outlined a data-driven plan whereby performance metrics from women officers over the next three to four years will guide the expansion of opportunities. This phased approach would initially involve supporting arms not yet open to women, moving to combat arms, and eventually to special forces. He described this process as "a sequential and welcome social change," reflecting broader societal shifts towards more inclusive norms.
Currently, the Indian Army is actively increasing the induction of women across ranks. At the National Defence Academy (NDA), 60 women cadets are enrolled, with plans for an annual intake of 20. The Officers’ Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai and Gaya aims to induct 120 women annually. To enhance inclusion in other ranks (ORs), amendments to Section 12 of the Army Act are being considered, aiming for a 12-fold increase by 2032. At present, roughly 8,000 women serve as officers, and the Territorial Army has recently opened 110 vacancies for women.
This position aligns with previous developments such as the Supreme Court's 2020 decision granting permanent commissions to women officers, marking a significant step towards gender parity in the armed forces. General Dwivedi’s remarks echo recent acknowledgments of women’s outstanding performance, as noted in a statement from January 13, 2025, affirming that women officers are "doing remarkably well" and that efforts to increase their numbers will continue.
The Army Chief's comments come amid global discussions about the role of women in military forces, drawing parallels to international scenarios where gender-inclusive forces have proven effective. As India continues to modernize its military—establishing drone regiments, rocket forces, and advancing ammunition indigenization—integrating women remains a crucial aspect of reform to ensure the force's adaptability and inclusivity.
