Pune: Historic First as Women Cadets Graduate in 148th NDA Course
Reported by Varad Bhatkhande
Khadakwasla, 30th May 2025: In a watershed moment for the Indian Armed Forces, the National Defence Academy (NDA) witnessed history on Friday as the first batch of women cadets officially passed out during the 148th course’s Passing Out Parade at the Khetrapal ground. A total of 340 cadets graduated, including 17 women — marking a new era of inclusivity and gender representation in India’s military leadership.
The Chief Guest for the ceremony was General Vijay Kumar Singh (Retd), Governor of Mizoram and former Chief of Army Staff, who arrived at 7:15 a.m. Addressing the cadets, General Singh reflected on his own NDA journey: “It is a matter of immense pride to stand where my own journey began on 7 June 1969, over five decades ago.”
In a stirring speech, he urged the cadets to don their uniforms with pride and remember that glory is never achieved in comfort. “Glory is crafted through grit and great force of discipline,” he said, adding that the NDA had tested their physical, mental, and moral strength like no other institution. “Pain is temporary, pride is permanent,” he emphasized, echoing the ethos of the academy.
General Singh underlined the historic significance of the event, noting that the passing out of the first group of women cadets was not just symbolic but transformational. “This is a powerful moment of progress for the Armed Forces,” he said. “You are stepping into a rapidly changing world — one that demands honour, duty, and sacrifice as the unshakable foundation of military service.”
He called upon the future officers to stay connected with the troops they will lead. “Never forget the sacred bond between you, your leader, and the people you serve,” he said. “Take care of your men and women. Know their stories. Stand by them. Earn the expertise to lead them in battle.”
Acknowledging the families in attendance, he expressed deep gratitude: “To every parent here — thank you. You have given the nation its greatest strength. The nation shares your pride and your sacrifice.”
Concluding his address, General Singh left the cadets with a message of lasting inspiration: “Wear your NDA identity with honour. Show the world you are from NDA — the greatest military academy in the world.”
