Sai Jadhav becomes IMA Dehradun’s first woman officer, breaks 93-year-old record

The Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun witnessed a historic moment as Sai Jadhav became the first woman to pass out from the institution in its 93-year history.

The traditional passing-out parade, where families pin stars on newly commissioned officers, carried special significance as Jadhav completed her final step of training. She has been commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Territorial Army, becoming the first woman officer from IMA to join the force.

Jadhav also carries forward a distinguished family legacy of military service. She is the fourth generation in her family to wear the uniform, following her great-grandfather, grandfather and father, all of whom served in the Indian Army.

Born in Belgaum, Jadhav’s schooling took place across multiple states due to her father’s frequent army postings. Her entry into IMA required special permission, followed by rigorous training at one of the country’s most prestigious military institutions.

Her achievement has opened the door for more women at IMA. Currently, eight women cadets from the National Defence Academy’s 2022 batch are undergoing training at the academy. As the Indian Armed Forces continue to widen opportunities for women, milestones like this reflect a significant step toward greater inclusion.