In a historic shift, reflecting India's evolving military ethos, more women are now stepping into leadership roles—from flying fighter jets to sailing across oceans and leading platoons. The armed forces are witnessing a transformative surge in female participation, marked by milestones like the graduation of the first-ever batch of women cadets from National Defence Academy.
The first-ever batch of 17 female cadets was among the 336 cadets who passed out of the National Defence Academy (NDA) on Friday. This marked the culmination of the 148th Course – Spring Term 2025.
The Passing Out Parade (POP) at the iconic Khetarpal Parade Ground in Khadakwasla, Maharashtra, in which 1,341 cadets, including the 336 who completed the course, showcased a grand display of precision, discipline and military bearing—a testament to the rigorous military and academic training by the cadets.
The parade was conducted by Adjutant Lt Col Praveen Kumar Tiwari, astride his charger ‘Reliant Robin’.
Academy Cadet Captain Udayveer Singh Negi of ‘G’ Squadron commanded the parade.
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In recognition of the exemplary performance, the Reviewing Officer presented the President’s Gold Medal to Battalion Cadet Adjutant Prince Raj, the President’s Silver Medal to Academy Cadet Captain Udayveer Singh Negi, and the President’s Bronze Medal to Battalion Cadet Captain Tejas Bhatt. The Chiefs of Staff Banner was awarded to Golf Squadron for overall excellence.
The ceremony concluded with a grand flypast featuring Chetak helicopters, Super Dimona motorised gliders, and the Sukhoi-30 fighter aircraft. According to the defence ministry, this symbolised the culmination of training and the cadets’ readiness to embark on the next phase of their military journey.
"The Spring Term 2025 POP stands as a proud testament to the Academy’s enduring commitment to grooming future military leaders, now enriched with the inclusion of women cadets destined to serve the nation with honour and valour. The event held historical significance as it marked the passing out of the first-ever batch of 17 Female Cadets from the Academy — a transformative milestone in NDA’s legacy of nation-building," a release from the defence ministry said.