Major Navya Shekhawat: Trailblazing as the First Woman Indian Army Officer Appointed ADC to the President
Major Navya Shekhawat has made history by becoming the first female officer from the Indian Army to hold the position of Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to the President of India. Her appointment at Rashtrapati Bhavan marks a significant milestone for the Indian Armed Forces, symbolizing the increasing involvement of women in high-responsibility roles within the military.
Currently serving as ADC to President Droupadi Murmu, Major Shekhawat is the first woman from the Indian Army to achieve this distinction. She is the second female officer overall to be appointed to this role, following Lieutenant Commander Yashasvi Solanki of the Indian Navy, who became the first female ADC in May 2025.
Major Shekhawat's achievement not only represents a personal success but also signifies a broader shift in the Indian military landscape, where women are being recognized for their competence, professionalism, and leadership. Her journey underscores the evolving role of women in uniform.
Her path to the Indian Army began through the rigorous Combined Defence Services Examination, conducted by the Union Public Service Commission. Successfully clearing this examination, she earned her place in the merit list for the Short Service Commission Women Non-Technical Course at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai.
OTA Chennai is esteemed for transforming young men and women into commissioned officers of the Indian Army. It requires physical endurance, mental resilience, leadership capabilities, and discipline. Major Shekhawat completed this challenging training and was subsequently commissioned into the Army.
She was assigned to the Army Service Corps, a vital component of the Indian Army responsible for logistics, supply, transport, fuel, and other essential functions. The operational efficiency of military forces heavily relies on the logistics support provided by the Army Service Corps.
Her progression from a CDS-qualified candidate to a commissioned officer, and ultimately to one of the military's most prestigious appointments, highlights her dedication and professional excellence. Her selection as ADC within just a few years of service showcases the trust placed in her abilities by the institution.
The role of ADC to the President is among the most esteemed within the Indian Armed Forces, involving assistance in official, ceremonial, and protocol-related duties. ADCs are prominent figures during national events and state ceremonies, representing the Armed Forces' professionalism and discipline.
This position requires exceptional discipline, confidence, communication skills, and an in-depth understanding of military protocol. An ADC not only represents their service but also embodies the dignity and professionalism of the Armed Forces at the highest level.
Historically, such roles were predominantly held by male officers. However, the appointment of Lieutenant Commander Yashasvi Solanki in 2025 as the first female ADC to the President marked a turning point. Major Navya Shekhawat’s appointment further advances this progress.
Her presence at Rashtrapati Bhavan is inspiring many young defense aspirants, especially women with ambitions of joining the Armed Forces. Her visibility during official functions has attracted significant attention and appreciation, symbolizing 'Nari Shakti' in uniform.
Major Shekhawat’s achievement also reflects the broader participation of women in the Indian Army, which began with the Short Service Commission in the early 1990s. The 2020 Supreme Court ruling granting permanent commissions to women officers has expanded their roles and career opportunities.
Her career exemplifies that excellence can emerge from any sector within the military. While combat roles often gain public attention, services like the Army Service Corps are crucial to military operations. Major Shekhawat’s path demonstrates that all branches offer opportunities for prestigious roles through merit.
For those aspiring to join the Armed Forces through routes like CDS and SSB interviews, her story emphasizes the importance of academic preparation, physical fitness, leadership ability, confidence, discipline, and character. Her journey from OTA to Rashtrapati Bhavan highlights the necessity of these qualities.
Her appointment is a testament to the Indian Army's evolving nature, balancing tradition with progress and recognizing merit over gender. It underscores the message that leadership is based on capability and excellence.
Major Navya Shekhawat’s historic role as the first female Indian Army officer to serve as ADC to the President is a moment of pride for the nation. It showcases the growing confidence in women officers and their capacity to excel in prestigious and demanding roles.
As she continues her responsibilities at Rashtrapati Bhavan, Major Shekhawat stands as an inspiration for many young Indians. Her journey reflects discipline, determination, and the strength of service, reminding aspirants that dedication and merit can indeed pave the way to making history.
