Meet Captain Shivani: First-Ever Woman ADC to the Indian Army Chief

In a landmark development for the Indian Army, Captain Shivani has been appointed as the first-ever woman officer to serve as Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), General Dhiraj Seth. The appointment, reported in mid-July 2026, marks a significant milestone in the progressive integration of women officers into high-responsibility staff and protocol roles within the force.

General Dhiraj Seth assumed charge as the 31st Chief of the Army Staff on 30 June 2026, succeeding General Upendra Dwivedi. An Armoured Corps officer commissioned in December 1986, he brings extensive command experience, including leadership of both the South Western Command and Southern Command. Captain Shivani’s selection as his ADC underscores the Army’s emphasis on merit, professional competence, and equal opportunity.

Role and Responsibilities of an ADC to the COAS

The position of Aide-de-Camp to the Chief of the Army Staff is one of the most demanding and prestigious staff appointments available to junior and mid-level officers. It requires exceptional professional competence, unwavering discipline, impeccable personal conduct, and outstanding organisational skills.

Captain Shivani’s primary responsibilities include coordinating the Army Chief’s official engagements, managing his official programme, facilitating high-level interactions, and accompanying the COAS during important military, governmental, and ceremonial duties. The role demands constant attention to detail, discretion, operational efficiency, and the ability to perform effectively under intense scrutiny and tight timelines. Officers chosen for such appointments are recognised for their exemplary service records and demonstrated leadership potential.

Beyond ceremonial and protocol functions, the ADC serves as a critical link ensuring the smooth execution of the COAS’s schedule while upholding the highest standards of military professionalism.

A Milestone for Women Officers

Captain Shivani’s appointment represents an important chapter in the Indian Army’s ongoing efforts to expand opportunities for women officers across diverse domains. It builds on a series of progressive steps that have seen women officers take on increasingly challenging operational and staff roles—ranging from deployments in high-altitude areas such as Siachen to appointments as ADCs to Governors and, more recently, to the President of India.

Earlier milestones include Squadron Leader Manisha Padhi becoming one of the first women officers appointed as ADC to a state Governor, Lieutenant Commander Yashasvi Solanki of the Indian Navy becoming the first woman ADC to the President, and Major Navya Shekhawat becoming the first Indian Army woman officer to serve in that capacity at Rashtrapati Bhavan. Captain Shivani’s selection as ADC to the Army Chief continues this trajectory of inclusion based on merit.

The Indian Army has steadily opened avenues for women through permanent commission, command opportunities in certain arms and services, and greater participation in operational roles. Captain Shivani’s elevation exemplifies the force’s commitment to selecting officers solely on the basis of capability, irrespective of gender.

Broader Significance

The appointment carries strong inspirational value, particularly for young women aspiring to join the Armed Forces through the National Defence Academy, Officers Training Academy, or other entry schemes. It demonstrates that demonstrated excellence and professional ability continue to open doors that were once considered closed.

In the larger institutional context, the increasing presence of women officers in leadership-adjacent and high-visibility roles strengthens the Army’s human resource base, fosters diverse perspectives, and reinforces the principle of meritocracy. The role of ADC itself offers unique professional exposure and growth opportunities that will further prepare Captain Shivani for future responsibilities.

Captain Shivani’s selection as the first woman Aide-de-Camp to the Chief of the Army Staff is both a personal achievement and a reflection of the evolving character of the Indian Army—an institution that continues to adapt while remaining firmly rooted in professionalism, discipline, and national service.