Women officers in the Indian Army – 30 years and counting

Numerous women officers throughout the nation have been elevated to the selection grade rank Colonel and entrusted with leading independent sub-units or training battalions in regimental centres. However, Col Rana stands out as one of the pioneers to assume command of a complete regiment.

It is only in recent times that the progression of women officers in the prestigious uniform has started to reflect their rightful entitlements, with their ascent to the selection rank of Colonel and approval to lead battalions and regiments.

March 6, 1993, marked the graduation of the inaugural cohort of women officers from the Officers Training Academy in Chennai, formerly known as Madras. Among them, Major Priya Jhingan from the Judge Advocate General’s (JAG) Branch secured the top rank in the course and has since been a vocal advocate for the professional growth of women officers in the Army and the obstacles they encounter.

Undoubtedly, women officers have had to seek legal recourse over the years to safeguard and advance their careers. They have received judicial compensation, whether it pertains to the conferral of permanent commission or elevation to the rank of colonel. The higher judiciary, particularly the Delhi High Court and Supreme Court, have granted the relief they sought. Additionally, the opening of the National Defence Academy (NDA) to female cadets was also brought about by judicial intervention.

The preceding three decades have presented formidable obstacles, given the initial opposition to the notion of women in olive green. Nonetheless, through their tenacity and diligence, women officers have demonstrated their fortitude in undertaking more significant responsibilities and should not be limited to commanding independent sub-units under the guise of promotion to the rank of Colonel. With women officers now qualified to lead battalions and regiments, the prospects are brighter for a more equitable playing field and equivalent opportunities for both male and female counterparts.

The recent announcement by the Chief of Army Staff that a proposal to include women officers in the Regiment of Artillery has been submitted to the government is an encouraging development. It is a stepping stone towards women officers being enrolled in a fighting branch such as the Armoured Corps, and ultimately, subject to physical standards, in the Mechanised Infantry and Infantry itself. The admission of female cadets to the NDA is a crucial stride in this direction and will establish the benchmark for future physical requirements of women officers in arduous positions like combat arms.

Women Army officers who have served in uniform during the past thirty years and are now transitioning to civilian life have forged the way for officers like Colonel Madhu Rana. The adversities faced by these former Captains, Majors, and Lt Colonels have paved the way for current women Army officers carrying the Commanding Officer's baton. The next thirty years will be more promising due to their efforts.