Meet the Bold 17: NDA’s First Women Cadets Ready to Lead the Forces
On May 30, 2025, history will be etched into the proud legacy of the National Defence Academy (NDA) as 17 courageous women cadets graduate alongside 300 male cadets — marking the first-ever co-ed passing out parade at the prestigious tri-services military academy.
This historic moment is the result of a landmark Supreme Court ruling in 2021, which opened the NDA’s gates to women for the first time in its 75-year history. The first entrance exam was conducted later that year, with 1.78 lakh women among 5.7 lakh applicants. Out of these, only 17 made it through the grueling selection process — determined to break barriers and create history.
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These young pioneers, representing the Army (9), Navy (3), and Air Force (5), have since undergone three rigorous years of military, academic, and physical training shoulder-to-shoulder with their male counterparts. Their journey has not only transformed them individually but has redefined what leadership, discipline, and equality mean at the nation’s premier defence training ground.
Among them is Cadet Ishita Sharma from Uttarakhand — a civilian-background candidate who was pursuing economics when opportunity knocked. Today, she stands tall as the Division Cadet Captain, leading by example with academic brilliance and strong leadership. “We crossed many boundaries,” she says. “Our course is filled with merit holders, academic toppers, and achievers in physical training.”
Her thoughts are echoed by Cadet Harsimran Kaur from Punjab, who proudly represents a family of soldiers. From marching into an all-male bastion to adapting with fingerprint-locked facilities and evolving infrastructure, she reflects, “We never imagined we’d walk through these gates. But we did — and we are stronger for it.”
Cadet Shriti Daksh, daughter of a retired Wing Commander, shares how the NDA experience brought her closer to her father’s legacy. “My father dropped me off at the academy with pride. Now I’ll march on the parade ground just like he once did.”
These women weren’t just trained — they were reshaped into leaders. Cadets like Ritul Duhan, who became the first woman Battalion Cadet Captain, understand the weight of this historic step. “We’re not just passing out — we’re setting benchmarks for generations to follow.”
From horse-riding and swimming to handling weapons, tactics, and leadership drills, these cadets faced it all with determination. While physical standards were adjusted to reflect biological differences, the core values of discipline, courage, and character remained unaltered.
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Their journey wasn’t just about survival; it was about thriving under pressure, forging unbreakable bonds, and breaking mental barriers. Ishita summed it up best: “The academy breaks you — and then rebuilds you. What emerges is a leader.”
As they prepare to step into their respective academies and wings of the armed forces, these 17 cadets carry more than just rank and honor — they carry the hopes of a nation, the dreams of countless young girls, and the legacy of change.
This first female batch of NDA graduates isn’t just marching out of Khadakwasla — they’re marching into history.
35 comments
I’m really glad to know about all those things
The judiciary and govt have thrust down the throat of armed forces the induction of women. The main factor for consideration is CAPABILITY. Are women capable to handle the stresses and strains and dangers of battlefield? The answer is No. Since Physical Tests are adjusted to biological standards, how can women COMMAND men who are fitter than them. Physical and Mental fitness must be top notch. Even in Sports women compete against women and not men. A game like Chess also it’s same sex competing each other. The world over, it is acknowledged that biological differences bring about a natural difference in Capability. This is God Almighty creation. Women are excellent in Nursing, men are not. Banking sector, media and the like are areas where women can contribute immensely. In the Israel- Hamas war, IDF women soldiers are Not deployed in frontline combat; the same in Russia- Ukraine war. Last but not the least, we have ruthless enemies Pak, China and they will not spare anyone. Our brave Capt Kalia was decapitated and tortured ruthlessly; Abhinandan was tortured mercilessly. Our govt, bureaucracy and armed forces must be careful and not be reckless. Wars are not won by missiles, drones and rockets – the foot on the ground will only ensure victory.
Worst education system in entire world.
May be, boss, additional duty for Concern Co’s ……..
Fauz kaa ’ Bedard garak’.They would only be show pieces and main duties would be either AWWA or Mess duties and presenting bouquets during functions.
Half the time they would be reporting sick/ not doing active duties due to menstruation or on long leaves in producing children.
Drawing a salary of Rs2 L approx CTC and demanding posting to a station where husband is posted.
While these show pieces are being recruited at the cost of unemployed young men.