Meet Lieutenant Parul Dhadwal: 5th Generation Army Officer Continuing a Proud Family Legacy

In a momentous event for the Indian Armed Forces, Lieutenant Parul Dhadwal was commissioned into the Indian Army Ordnance Corps on September 6, 2025, marking a historic milestone as the first woman from a distinguished five-generation military family to don the olive greens.

Hailing from Village Janauri in Hoshiarpur district, Punjab a region celebrated for its rich martial heritage Lt Dhadwal not only continues a legacy spanning over a century but also exemplifies the evolving role of women in India's defence forces. Her achievement was capped with the prestigious President’s Gold Medal, awarded for standing first in the Order of Merit during her training at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai.

This commissioning is more than a personal triumph; it represents the convergence of tradition and progress. With Lt Dhadwal's entry, her family now boasts three serving officers across two generations a rare distinction that underscores an unwavering commitment to national service. As India continues to empower women in uniform, her story serves as an inspiration, highlighting how familial legacies can adapt to include new dimensions of inclusivity and excellence.

A Storied Family Legacy: Five Generations of Service

The Dhadwal family's military saga is a testament to enduring patriotism, rooted in Punjab's soil and stretching back to the late 19th century. It began with Lt Dhadwal's great-great-grandfather, Subedar Harnam Singh, who served in the 74 Punjabis from January 1, 1896, to July 16, 1924. His service laid the foundation for a lineage dedicated to defending the nation, embodying the valor and discipline that have defined the Indian Army for generations.

The second generation was represented by her great-grandfather, Major L.S. Dhadwal, who served with the 3rd Battalion of the Jat Regiment (3 JAT). This era saw the family deepen its ties to the military, navigating the challenges of pre- and post-independence India.

The third generation further elevated the family's prestige, with Colonel Daljit Singh Dhadwal of the 7th Battalion, Jammu and Kashmir Rifles (7 JAK RIF), and Brigadier Jagat Jamwal of the 3rd Battalion, Kumaon Regiment (3 KUMAON). These officers exemplified leadership and bravery, contributing to key operations and upholding the regiment's honor.

In the fourth generation, Lt Dhadwal's father, Major General K.S. Dhadwal, has distinguished himself in the 20th Battalion of the Sikh Regiment (20 SIKH). Decorated with the Sena Medal (SM) and Vishisht Seva Medal (VSM), he continues to serve actively, providing a living example of dedication for his children.

Joining him in the fifth generation is Lt Dhadwal's brother, Captain Dhananjay Dhadwal, also from 20 SIKH, who shares the uniform with their father. This unique scenario of three active officers father, son, and daughter from the same family highlights a profound bond with the armed forces, rarely seen in modern military history.

The family's story is not just one of ranks and regiments but of a shared ethos of service. Punjab's martial tradition, known for producing generations of soldiers, finds a perfect embodiment in the Dhadwals. Their home in Janauri has long been a cradle of military aspiration, where tales of valor are passed down like heirlooms. Lt Dhadwal's commissioning breaks new ground as the first female officer in this lineage, symbolizing a shift toward gender equality while preserving the core values of duty and sacrifice.

Lt Parul Dhadwal's Journey to Commissioning

Lt Dhadwal's path to the Indian Army was paved with determination and excellence. She underwent rigorous training at the Officers Training Academy in Chennai, one of India's premier institutions for short-service commission officers. OTA is renowned for its demanding curriculum, which includes physical fitness, tactical training, leadership development, and academic rigor. Lt Dhadwal excelled in all aspects, culminating in her top ranking in the Order of Merit among her peers. The President’s Gold Medal, presented during the passing-out parade, recognizes not only her academic and physical prowess but also her leadership potential and unwavering commitment.

While specific details about her pre-OTA education remain limited in public records, her background in a military family likely instilled discipline and resilience from a young age. Growing up surrounded by stories of service, she was inspired to pursue a career in the army, choosing the Ordnance Corps a vital branch responsible for logistics, ammunition, and equipment supply. This role demands precision, strategic thinking, and operational efficiency, qualities Lt Dhadwal has demonstrated abundantly.

Her achievement comes at a time when the Indian Army is actively expanding opportunities for women. Since the early 1990s, women have been inducted into various non-combat roles, and recent policy changes have opened doors to permanent commissions and combat positions. Lt Dhadwal's success reinforces this progress, proving that women can thrive in traditionally male-dominated spheres while honoring family traditions.

Achievements and Broader Impact

Beyond the gold medal and commissioning, Lt Dhadwal's entry into the army amplifies the narrative of women's empowerment in India. As the first woman in her family's five-generation legacy, she shatters glass ceilings and inspires countless young women from military backgrounds and beyond to aspire to leadership roles in the armed forces. Her story aligns with national initiatives like Nari Shakti, which celebrate women's contributions across sectors.

The Dhadwal family's collective service also reflects broader trends in the Indian military, where multi-generational involvement fosters a sense of continuity and pride. Instances like this are rare but powerful, as seen in other notable families, such as those with officers decorated in wars like Kargil or the 1971 Indo-Pak conflict. Lt Dhadwal's commissioning has garnered widespread media attention, with accolades from outlets emphasizing her role in blending legacy with modernity.

Conclusion: An Enduring Inspiration

Lieutenant Parul Dhadwal's journey is a beacon of hope and resilience, illustrating how personal ambition can intersect with familial heritage to create history. In an era where the Indian Army continues to evolve, her story underscores the importance of inclusivity, merit, and tradition. As she embarks on her career in the Ordnance Corps, Lt Dhadwal carries not just the weight of her uniform but the pride of five generations. Her legacy will undoubtedly motivate future officers, proving that service to the nation knows no gender boundaries. In the words echoed across military circles, it is "one uniform infinite pride."