From air warrior's daughter to history maker: Divyanshi Singh becomes first female NDA cadet commissioned in IAF Ground Duty branch

Union Defense Minister Rajnath Singh congratulates Divyanshi Singh on the combined graduation ceremony at Air Force Academy, Dundigal | Photo credit: Special arrangement

For Air Cadet Divyanshi Singh, the Indian Air Force (IAF) was never a distant aspiration. Growing up in a household shaped by the values of military service, she spent her childhood listening to stories of discipline, honor and selfless duty told by her airman father.

Divyanshi is set to become the first female cadet trained at the National Defense Academy (NDA) in Pune to be commissioned into the Indian Air Force Ground Forces, marking a significant moment in the armed forces’ journey towards greater inclusion of women.

Divyanshi is among five female cadets who belong to the first-ever group of women entering the National Defense Academy. After graduating from the NDA in March 2025, the five cadets underwent branch-oriented training at the Air Force Academy, Dundigal, before being commissioned into the Indian Air Force.

Her journey to the milestone began when the NDA opened its doors to women. After passing the entrance exam, Divyanshi underwent the rigorous training regime that defines a premier tri-service academy.

During her tenure at NDA, Divyanshi distinguished herself for her leadership qualities and was appointed Cadet Quarter Master Sergeant, a position that reflected the trust placed in her by the institution and her peers.

In three years of training, she has transformed from a young aspirant inspired by her father’s service to a confident and disciplined cadet who imbibes the values of teamwork, sacrifice and commitment that are at the heart of military life.

As Divyanshi prepares to don the uniform as a commissioned officer, Divyanshi’s achievement represents more than just a personal achievement. Her journey symbolizes a new chapter for women in the armed forces and serves as an inspiration to young women across the country who aspire to serve their nation in uniform.

Published – 13 Jun 2026 21:56 IST