New Delhi : Sai Jadhav, 23, has created history by becoming the first woman officer to pass out from the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun. Her commissioning marks the end of a 93-year wait. Sai’s commissioning also extends a long-running military tradition in her family. Her great-grandfather served in the British Army, her grandfather held a commission in the Indian Army.
Sai has been commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Territorial Army, becoming the first woman officer from the IMA to join the force, a distinction that sets her apart even in a branch that has previously inducted women. The moment Sai’s parents pinned the stars on her shoulders at the passing-out ceremony became a defining image. Many called it a milestone that will inspire generations of young girls.
At present, eight women officer cadets are in training with the Indian Army, forming the first batch selected through the National Defence Academy’s 2022 intake. Sai Jadhav’s entry into this space came through special permission, followed by six months of rigorous training at the Indian Military Academy. The preparation took place alongside male cadets, with all standards and requirements met at par with the regular course.
Sai Jadhav completed her training not through the regular IMA course, but through the Territorial Army’s Special Training Course. She was the only woman among the 16 officer cadets enrolled in the course. Sharing her experience, Sai explained that the training was extremely challenging, both physically and mentally. However, it strengthened her leadership skills, resilience, and a deep sense of duty to the Indian Army. At the passing out ceremony, her parents placed the lieutenant’s stars on her shoulders.
Sai Jadhav’s achievements are deeply rooted in her family’s strong military history. Sai Jadhav’s father, Sandeep Jadhav, is a Major in the Indian Army. Her grandfather served in the British Army. This rich family military tradition was a key factor in Sai’s decision to pursue a career in the armed forces. Lieutenant Sai Jadhav’s success is not just a personal achievement, but also paves the way for equal opportunities for women in the Indian Army.
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