First Batch of Female Cadets Graduates from NDA in Historic Passing Out Parade
In a landmark moment for India’s defence forces, the National Defence Academy (NDA) celebrated the graduation of its first-ever batch of 17 female cadets during the Passing Out Parade (POP) held on May 30, 2025, at the iconic Khetarpal Parade Ground in Khadakwasla, Maharashtra. The event marked the conclusion of the 148th NDA Course – Spring Term 2025, with 336 cadets passing out, including the historic cohort of women.
General (Dr) VK Singh (Retd), Governor of Mizoram and former Chief of Army Staff, presided over the ceremony as the Reviewing Officer, applauding the cadets for completing one of the most rigorous military and academic training programmes in the country.
Why was this Passing Out Parade historically significant?
This POP marked a transformative milestone in the NDA’s history with the passing out of the first-ever female cadets from the Academy. Seventeen women were among the 336 cadets who graduated from the 148th Course, reflecting the changing face of the Indian Armed Forces and the Academy’s evolving role in promoting gender inclusion.
The NDA, which has traditionally trained only male cadets, began admitting women following a Supreme Court ruling and policy shift in recent years. This event stands as a visible testament to the Academy’s expanding commitment to inclusive nation-building and leadership training.
What were the key highlights of the ceremony?
The parade featured a total of 1,341 cadets from all courses. The event showcased discipline, military bearing, and ceremonial precision, with the parade commanded by Academy Cadet Captain Udayveer Singh Negi of ‘G’ Squadron. Adjutant Lt Col Praveen Kumar Tiwari, mounted on his charger Reliant Robin, led the ceremonial proceedings.
The President’s Gold Medal was awarded to Battalion Cadet Adjutant Prince Raj, the President’s Silver Medal went to Academy Cadet Captain Udayveer Singh Negi, and the President’s Bronze Medal was presented to Battalion Cadet Captain Tejas Bhatt. The prestigious Chiefs of Staff Banner for overall excellence was awarded to Golf Squadron.
The parade concluded with a flypast that included Chetak helicopters, Super Dimona gliders, and a Sukhoi-30 aircraft, symbolising the end of training and the readiness of the cadets to join the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force.
The event was attended by proud families, serving and retired military officers, school children, and civilians— many of whom witnessed the historic passing out of India’s first batch of women NDA cadets with deep pride.
With this, the NDA not only celebrated another chapter in its legacy but also redefined it — opening new pathways for women in India’s defence forces.
