Special 17: First batch of women cadets set to pass out of NDA

Time of India

24-05-2025

PUNE: Cadet Ishita Sharma stands at a pivotal moment, just a week away from a significant milestone not just for her, but for the country. She is part of the first group of 17 women cadets who will graduate from Pune's National Defence Academy (NDA) on May 30, along with around 300 male counterparts.
This achievement marks a historic moment for the armed forces, following their decision to allow women to enter the academy in June 2022.
"I come from a non-military background. My parents work in the corporate sector, and my brother is an IT professional. I was pursuing a bachelor's degree in economics when NDA announced its entry for women. I didn't think twice before applying," Ishita told TOI.
The maiden graduating cadets share the common experience of stringent physical training, military routines, and strong bonds formed over three years at the academy.
They echoed that a key aspect of their journey has been personal development, reflecting NDA's reputation for transforming young individuals into accomplished military personnel. "After spending three years here, I can confidently say that my personality underwent a complete transformation," Ishita said.
Achieving several accomplishments along the way, Ishita earned the honorary appointment of 'Division Cadet Captain' (DCC) for her outstanding performance in all areas of training.
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"This is how one gets the opportunity to become a leader right from the academy. It develops your leadership character naturally," she remarked.
Her fellow cadets echoed similar sentiments about their stint at the academy, acknowledging the significant and transformative impact of training on their confidence.
"Before joining the academy, I was an introvert. Here, I made several friends for life. In fact, my course mates feel like family now.
I would not have imagined it. You form unbreakable bonds that last forever," Ishita said.
Cadets emphasised that they never had to compete with their male counterparts for opportunities during their training. "Equal opportunity naturally empowers each individual. That is what makes the academy unique in all aspects," Ishita added.
All cadets faced challenges during military training in the initial stages. They worked hard on both physical fitness and overcoming mental barriers.
"Once you break that mental barrier, you push your limits to the next level each time. That is what truly matters, not how many push-ups one can do at a time," elaborated Ishita.
For cadet Shriti Daksh, the initial weeks brought about a stark realisation about the realities of military training. "At the academy, I actually understood what the real experience of military training feels like," said Shriti, the daughter of a retired wing commander.
"I had no other dream or plan than to join the armed forces."
"It was a significant milestone for me. It was a special day for my father and me when he dropped me off at the academy, a mix of nostalgia and pride for him. Now, I am just a few days away from the moment my father experienced in his life, and I am excited to share that moment with him on May 30," Shriti added.
Ritul Duhan, the first Battalion Cadet Captain (BCC) from the group, is aware of the responsibility she carries. "We're not just completing training; we are paving the way for future leadership and inspiring younger cadets."