AP CM N Chandrababu Naidu congratulates the women cadets
NEW DELHI, MAY 31, 2025: In a historic moment for the Indian Armed Forces, the first batch of 17 women cadets successfully passed out from the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Pune. These women marched alongside 300 male counterparts, showcasing their hard work and determination on Friday.
Marking the passing out of the first co-ed batch, the cadets went past ‘Antim Pag’ at the Khetrpal Parade Ground of the tri-service training academy in Khadakwasla. Academy cadet captain, Udayveer Negi, commanded the parade of the 148th course, with former army chief and current governor of Mizoram, General VK Singh as the reviewing officer of the Passing Out Parade.
The first batch of women cadets joined the NDA in 2022 after the UPSC allowed women to apply to the defence academy following a Supreme Court direction in 2021.
A total of 339 cadets, including the trailblazing 17 female cadets, were conferred degrees from Delhi-based Jawaharlal Nehru University. Of these, 84 cadets were awarded BSc degrees, 85 received Computer Science degrees, 59 got Bachelor of Arts (BA) degrees, and 111 were conferred B.Tech degrees.
On this occasion, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu in X posted: “When we empower girls with opportunity, they don’t just break barriers, but they also redefine what’s possible for generations to come. A historical moment for our nation as the first-ever batch of 17 female cadets pass out from the National Defence Academy (NDA). My heartfelt congratulations to these pioneering daughters of our nation and all passing cadets as they embark on their noble mission to serve and protect our country. Let’s applaud this proud step forward in strengthening our Armed Forces and deepening our commitment to equal opportunity”.
