Sai ends a 93-year wait for women at the academy.
In a landmark moment for the armed forces, 23-year-old Sai Jadhav has etched her name in history as the first woman officer to successfully pass out from the institution since its inception in 1932.
For 93 years, over 67,000 cadets have marched out of the IMA to serve the nation, but the list never included a woman until now. Sai’s graduation changes the narrative of gender inclusion in India's premier military training institute. She has been commissioned as a Lieutenant in the Territorial Army, setting a new precedent for aspiring female cadets across the country.
A Fourth-Generation Warrior
Wearing the olive green is not just a career choice for Sai; it is a legacy woven into her DNA. She represents the fourth generation of the Jadhav family to serve the nation. The tradition began with her great-grandfather in the British Army, followed by her grandfather in the Indian Army. Her father, Sandeep Jadhav, is currently a serving officer.
The visuals of her parents piping the stars onto her shoulders marked an emotional culmination of a dream nurtured across varied army cantonments. Sai’s education spanned multiple states, including Belgaum, as she moved with her father’s postings, eventually clearing a national-level exam to face the Service Selection Board (SSB).
Training Without Compromise
Sai’s entry into the IMA was unique. Admitted through special permission, she underwent a grueling six-month training regimen. Crucially, there were no concessions made for gender; she trained alongside male cadets, meeting the exact same physical and mental standards required by the regular course.
This achievement is seen as a significant stepping stone. Currently, the academy is training eight other women cadets from the National Defence Academy's 2022 batch, signaling a broader shift in policy.
While she has received her commission, the historic moment will be visually celebrated in June 2026, when Lieutenant Sai Jadhav will participate in the ceremonial parade in front of the iconic Chetwode Building. Her success has already ignited social media, with veterans and citizens alike hailing her as a beacon of inspiration for young girls dreaming of a life in uniform.
