Breaking 93 Years of History: Maharashtra’s Sai Jadhav Becomes First Woman Officer to Pass Out from IMA

Dehradun – In a moment that has etched a new chapter in India’s military history, 23-year-old Sai Jadhav has shattered a near-century-old glass ceiling by becoming the first-ever woman officer cadet to pass out from the prestigious Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun.

A Historic Milestone at IMA Dehradun

Since its establishment in 1932, the Indian Military Academy has been the bedrock of leadership for the Indian Army, commissioning over 67,000 officers. However, for 93 years, its hallowed portals remained a male-only bastion for pre-commissioning training. Lieutenant Sai Jadhav has now broken this long-standing tradition.

Hailing from Kolhapur, Maharashtra, Sai was commissioned as a Lieutenant into the Territorial Army (TA) on December 13, 2025. While women have served in the TA previously, Sai is the first woman in history to reach the force through the rigorous IMA training route, rather than the Officers Training Academy (OTA).

The Legacy of a Fourth-Generation Soldier

For the Jadhav family, the uniform is more than just attire; it is a legacy. Sai represents the fourth generation of her family to serve the nation. Her military roots run deep:

• Great-grandfather: Served in the British Army.
• Grandfather: Served in the Indian Army.
• Father: Major Sandeep Jadhav, currently serving in the Territorial Army.

Educated in Belgaum and having lived across various states due to her father’s postings, Sai’s upbringing was defined by discipline. At her commissioning ceremony, the image of her parents pinning the stars on her shoulders went viral, symbolizing a transition from a proud past to an inclusive future.

Rigorous Training with No Relaxations

Sai’s journey to the IMA was a feat of pure merit. She cleared the national-level competitive exam for the Territorial Army in December 2023, topping the merit list for the lone vacancy available for women.

During her six months at the academy, she underwent the same grueling military drills and academic assessments as her male counterparts. From weapon handling to endurance tests, there were no physical relaxations. Her success proves that “Marathi Mulgi” Sai Jadhav was not just a participant but a trailblazer who met every standard of the elite institution.

Maharashtra CM Celebrates the “Marathi Mulgi”

The achievement has sparked nationwide pride, particularly in Maharashtra. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis took to X (formerly Twitter) to congratulate her, stating:

“Breaking 93 Years of History: Marathi Mulgi Sai Jadhav becomes First Woman officer to pass out from IMA! This is not just an individual success story, but an inspiring milestone that gives direction to the dreams of countless young girls across the country.”

Future Outlook: A New Era for Women in the Army

Lieutenant Sai Jadhav has been posted to the 130 Infantry Battalion (Ecological) of the Kumaon Regiment at Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand. Her commissioning serves as a precursor to a larger shift; the IMA is set to begin regular training for women cadets alongside men from June 2026.

Currently, eight women cadets from the first NDA batch (2022 intake) are also in training, but Sai’s graduation from the IMA marks the definitive end of a 93-year-old era, proving that the highest honors of service are now open to all, regardless of gender.