The Rise of Women Officers in India's Armed Forces: A Historic Moment

Last Updated May - 10 - 2025, 03:35 PM | Source : Fela News

Explore the journey of women in the Indian Army, from initial restrictions to historic Supreme Court rulings and the achievements of officers like Colonel Sofiy

On May 7, 2025, two women officers, Colonel Sofiya Qureshi from the Indian Army and Wing Commander Vyomika Singh from the Indian Air Force, shared details of Operation Sindoor, marking a significant moment for India. However, the journey of women in the Indian Army has been a long and challenging one. A pivotal Supreme Court judgment on February 17, 2020, highlighted the progressive steps taken since 1992 to integrate women into the Army, excluding Combat Arms. It referenced Section 12 of the Army Act, which initially restricted women’s eligibility, but over time, policies allowed women to serve in various branches like Army Postal Service, Corps of Engineers, and more.

In 2005, the Women Special Entry Scheme was replaced with the Short Service Commission (SSC), allowing women officers to serve for 14 years. A major legal breakthrough came when Advocate Babita Puniya petitioned for a permanent commission for women officers, eventually leading to the 2020 Supreme Court ruling, which recognized that gender-based assumptions could no longer justify denying equal opportunities. Notable women officers, including Colonel Qureshi, who had led international military exercises and served in peacekeeping operations, were acknowledged for their contributions, marking a major step toward gender equality in India’s armed forces.