Army ready to induct women in infantry if there is societal acceptance: General Upendra Dwivedi

The statement by General Upendra Dwivedi, indicating the Indian Army's readiness to induct women into infantry contingent on 'societal acceptance,' marks a significant inflection point in the ongoing evolution of gender roles within India's armed forces. This announcement is not an isolated event but rather the latest development in a decades-long journey towards greater inclusivity and gender equality in one of the world's largest armies.

Historically, women in the Indian armed forces were primarily restricted to medical, nursing, and administrative support roles. Their entry into non-medical branches began in a limited capacity in 1992 when the government allowed women to join the Army, Navy, and Air Force as Short Service Commission (SSC) officers in select cadres. This was a crucial first step, but it still kept them away from combat roles and denied them the opportunity for permanent commission (PC), which meant a shorter career span and limited promotional avenues compared to their male counterparts.

However, a series of landmark judicial interventions and policy shifts have progressively dismantled these barriers. The most significant was the Supreme Court's judgment in the *Secretary, Ministry of Defence v. Babita Puniya* case in February 2020. This ruling directed the government to grant permanent commission to women officers in all ten non-combat support services of the Indian Army, bringing them on par with male officers in terms of tenure, rank, and pensionary benefits. Following this, in September 2021, the Supreme Court further opened the doors of the National Defence Academy (NDA) to women candidates, allowing them to train as future officers alongside men, a move that was initially resisted by the government but ultimately embraced.

General Dwivedi's statement builds on this momentum. Currently, women are already inducted into various roles, including medical non-tech and the Army Education Corps, as highlighted in the prompt. The establishment of an all-women skydiving display team at Bathinda, announced last year, further exemplifies the Army's commitment to creating specialized opportunities and showcasing women's capabilities. The prospect of women in infantry, traditionally the most physically demanding and combat-intensive arm, represents the final frontier in achieving true gender parity in the military.

Key stakeholders in this development include the **Indian Army leadership**, which is responsible for policy implementation, training, and ensuring operational effectiveness. The **Ministry of Defence (MoD)** plays a pivotal role in formulating and approving these progressive policies. **Women aspirants and officers** are direct beneficiaries, their aspirations driving much of this change. The **judiciary**, through its proactive judgments, has acted as a catalyst for reform. Finally, **Indian society at large** is a crucial stakeholder, as the 'societal acceptance' clause underscores the need for public support and understanding for such a transformative shift.

This development holds immense significance for India. Firstly, it is a powerful stride towards **gender equality and women's empowerment**, challenging deep-rooted patriarchal norms and stereotypes. It signals that women are capable of excelling in all fields, including the most arduous. Secondly, from a **national security perspective**, it broadens the talent pool, allowing the Army to select the best candidates regardless of gender, potentially enhancing military effectiveness and readiness. Globally, many advanced militaries have integrated women into combat roles, and India's move aligns with these international trends. Thirdly, it has significant **social implications**, reflecting a modernizing society that is increasingly willing to shed traditional gender roles, fostering a more inclusive and equitable nation.

From a constitutional perspective, this move aligns with the spirit of **Article 14** (equality before law), **Article 15** (prohibition of discrimination on grounds of sex), and **Article 16** (equality of opportunity in matters of public employment). While these articles prohibit discrimination, practical implementation often requires proactive policy changes. The government's initiatives, backed by judicial pronouncements, are a testament to upholding these constitutional guarantees in the armed forces.

Looking ahead, the future implications are profound. Inducting women into infantry will necessitate significant **changes in training modules**, **infrastructure** (like separate accommodations and sanitation facilities in forward areas), and **logistics**. It will also require a concerted effort to foster a **cultural shift** within the armed forces, ensuring an inclusive and respectful environment. Challenges related to physical standards, combat deployment protocols, and psychological support will need careful consideration and planning. However, successfully navigating these challenges could lead to a more diverse, resilient, and ultimately, a more effective fighting force for India, setting a powerful example for other sectors of society.