Dehradun – In a historic decision, the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun will welcome its first batch of women cadets for military training in July. This marks a significant milestone in the 92-year history of the prestigious academy, which has primarily trained male cadets since its establishment in 1932.
Following the Supreme Court’s directive to allow women to join the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Khadakwasla, female cadets have begun receiving military training alongside their male counterparts. Among the 18 women cadets in the NDA’s sixth and final term, eight have chosen the Indian Army as their career path. After passing out from the NDA, these women will undergo a year of rigorous training at the IMA before commissioning as officers.
A New Chapter in IMA’s Glorious Legacy
Established on October 1, 1932, the IMA began with a batch of 40 gentlemen cadets. Over the decades, its training capacity has grown significantly, now accommodating 1,650 cadets at a time. More than 65,000 officer cadets, including those from 34 friendly foreign nations, have graduated from the academy. Many of them have earned accolades for their exemplary service to the nation, with some making the ultimate sacrifice.
With the inclusion of women cadets, the IMA is set to add a new chapter to its illustrious legacy. The academy will provide them with the same rigorous training designed to instill leadership, physical endurance, and military proficiency.
Following their three-year academic and military training at the NDA, the cadets receive their degrees and proceed to specialized military training institutions. For those opting for the Army, the IMA will now offer them intensive one-year training, preparing them for leadership roles in the armed forces.
