First-ever batch of 17 female cadets graduate from NDA

New Delhi, May 30: The National Defence Academy (NDA) made history on Friday as 17 female cadets graduated for the first time, completing the 148th Course – Spring Term 2025. They were part of a group of 336 cadets who passed out during the Passing Out Parade (POP) held at the Khetarpal Parade Ground in Khadakwasla, Maharashtra.

The event was reviewed by Governor of Mizoram, General (Dr) VK Singh (Retd), who congratulated the cadets on successfully completing their rigorous military and academic training. A total of 1,341 cadets participated in the parade. The Passing Out Parade was led by Academy Cadet Captain Udayveer Singh Negi of ‘G’ Squadron, while Adjutant Lt Col Praveen Kumar Tiwari conducted the parade on horseback, riding his charger ‘Reliant Robin’.

Top honours were awarded to outstanding cadets:

President’s Gold Medal: Battalion Cadet Adjutant Prince Raj

President’s Silver Medal: Academy Cadet Captain Udayveer Singh Negi

President’s Bronze Medal: Battalion Cadet Captain Tejas Bhatt

Golf Squadron received the Chiefs of Staff Banner for best overall performance. This marks a major milestone for the NDA, which opened its doors to women cadets in 2021. The graduation of the first batch reflects a significant step towards gender inclusion in India’s Armed Forces. The cadets will now move on to their respective service academies for further training before being commissioned as officers in the Army, Navy, or Air Force.