The Indian Army has expressed its preparedness to eventually induct women into infantry combat roles, a historic development if implemented, though the decision remains contingent on broader societal acceptance and maintaining operational standards that ensure effectiveness in frontline duties. This was stated by General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of Army Staff, during a media briefing in January 2026.
What the Army Chief Actually Said
General Dwivedi acknowledged that the Army’s official position prioritises “gender neutrality”, meaning women should be judged on capabilities rather than preconceived notions about vulnerability or suitability. He explicitly stated that if women can meet the same operational standards as men and if society is prepared to accept women in ground combat roles, the Army could open infantry slots to women “tomorrow.”
He emphasised that women should not be viewed as a “vulnerable commodity” but as capable personnel, reinforcing that decisions will be data-driven and performance-based.
Why Societal Acceptance Matters
The Army leadership pointed out that while military policy and willingness exist, societal views and acceptance play a role in shaping when women can be integrated into frontline infantry roles.
This reflects a broader understanding that combat roles influence not only force structure but also societal expectations and support systems including policies, facilities, family support, and public perception, which the military considers before making transformational changes.
Operational Standards and Challenges
General Dwivedi noted that uniform physical and operational standards would be essential for any gender-neutral infantry induction. Current discussions include understanding how to balance physical rigour with equality of opportunity, without degradation of performance in highly demanding environments.
He also outlined a phased approach where women’s roles could expand progressively:
- Starting in support arms
- Moving to combat arms
- Potentially towards specialist or special forces roles in the future
Performance data from women officers over the next few years will inform this expansion.
Women in the Army Today
Women are already serving in various capacities across the Army:
- National Defence Academy (NDA): About 60 women cadets are currently training, with approximately 20 joining each year.
- Officers’ Training Academy (OTA): Around 120 women are inducted annually at OTA Chennai and OTA Gaya.
- Territorial Army: The Army’s part-time volunteer force has opened up vacancies for women, with about 110 positions in the current cycle.
- Other Ranks (ORs): Induction of women in ORs would require revision of Section 12 of the Army Act, with the Army aiming for a significant increase by 2032.
- Overall, there are roughly 8,000 women officers in the Army today.
This reflects a broader, long-standing trend toward expanding women’s roles since permanent commissions were eventually granted in several branches following legal and policy developments over recent years.
Strategic and Social Implications
The Army Chief’s comments are significant not because they announce a sudden policy change, but because they acknowledge an ongoing evolution in the role of women in the armed forces. The Indian Army’s official view now emphasises:
- Gender neutrality over token inclusion
- Capability-based assessment
- Incremental expansion of roles based on performance data
This approach aligns with the Army’s broader efforts to modernise and prepare for future forms of warfare, where adaptability, technology, and human contribution are all critical.
Closing Thoughts
The Indian Army’s readiness to consider inducting women into infantry roles represents a potential milestone in military gender integration. However, by linking this possibility to societal acceptance and uniform standards, the leadership has signalled a cautious, structured path toward meaningful inclusion, rather than a rapid policy shift.
If the necessary standards and societal conditions align, this could mark a significant step in redefining the Indian Army’s combat profile in the decades ahead.