Many women are driven by a strong sense of patriotism and a desire to serve their country. They see joining the armed forces as a way to contribute to the defence and security of India. Over the years, the Indian defence forces have opened up more opportunities for women, and they have been actively participating in various roles, there are many women in India who have successfully joined the defence forces and have made significant contributions. If you are looking for a chance to join or know someone eager to join the Indian armed forces, this blog will definitely assist you in achieving that goal.

• Short Service Commission (SSC): Women can apply for SSC in the Army, Navy, and Air Force. SSC allows them to serve as officers for a specific period, typically 10-14 years, which can be extended. Sure, you have the freedom to select the specific military branch you wish to enlist in and fulfil your aspiration of becoming a pilot, just like Gunjan Saxena. As the saying goes, “plane chaahe ladka udaaye yaa ladki , Bolte pilot hi hai “.To join the armed forces through the Short Service Commission (SSC), women can follow these steps:
  • Eligibility Check: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria set by the respective defence force. This includes age limits, educational qualifications, physical fitness standards, and citizenship requirements.
  • Application Process: Keep an eye on the official notifications released by the defence forces for SSC entries. Fill out the application form online or offline, providing accurate and complete information.
  • Written Examination: Prepare for the written examination, which typically includes subjects like General Knowledge, English, Mathematics, and Reasoning. Study the prescribed syllabus and practice previous years’ question papers to familiarize yourself with the exam pattern.
  • Physical Fitness Test: Prepare for the physical fitness test, which may include activities like running, push-ups, sit-ups, and other physical exercises. Maintain a regular fitness routine and practice to improve your endurance and strength.
  • SSB Interview: If you qualify for the written examination, you will be called for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview. The SSB interview assesses your personality, leadership qualities, communication skills, and suitability for a career in the armed forces. Prepare for the interview by practising group discussions, mock interviews, and enhancing your general awareness.
  • Medical Examination: Clear the medical examination conducted by the armed forces to ensure that you meet the medical standards required for service. This includes vision, hearing, physical fitness, and overall health tests.
  • Merit List and Training: If you successfully clear all the stages, your name will be included in the merit list. Based on the vacancies available, you will be offered a training opportunity at the respective training academies of the armed forces.
• Women Special Entry Scheme (WSES): This scheme is exclusively for women and allows them to join the Army as officers through direct recruitment. It offers opportunities in various branches like the Army Education Corps, Judge Advocate General, and Army Medical Corps
  The Women Special Entry Scheme (WSES) ensures that women are provided with equal opportunities to serve in the armed forces as officers. The WSES aims to empower women and enable them to contribute their skills and expertise to the defence forces of the country.
  

• Technical Entries: Women can apply for technical entries in the Army, Navy, and Air Force. These entries require specific educational qualifications and allow women to serve in technical roles such as engineering, signals, aviation, and more. The selection process for technical entries typically involves a written examination, followed by an interview and medical examination. Successful candidates are then offered training at the respective training academies of the armed forces. It is important to stay updated with the official notifications and guidelines provided by the armed forces for accurate and detailed information regarding technical entries for women.
  
• Non-Technical Entries: Women can also apply for non-technical entries in the armed forces These entries encompass branches such as administration, logistics, education, legal, and medical fields. Women can apply for non-technical entries in the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The selection process for non-technical entries typically involves a written examination, followed by an interview and medical examination. Successful candidates are then offered training at the respective training academies of the armed forces. It is important to regularly check the official notifications and guidelines provided by the armed forces for updated information and specific eligibility criteria for non-technical entries for women.
  
  • Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth, and Mohana Singh: These three women became the first female fighter pilots in the Indian Air Force in 2016.
  • Mitali Madhumita: She became the first woman officer to be inducted as a pilot in the Indian Navy in 2019.
  • Lt. Bhavana Kasturi: She became the first woman officer to lead an all-men contingent at the Republic Day parade in 2019.
  • Lt. Colonel Sophia Qureshi: She became the first woman officer to lead an Indian Army contingent at a foreign military parade in 2018.
    These are just a few examples, and there are many more women who have successfully joined and served in the defence forces of India. Their achievements inspire and encourage more women to pursue careers in the defence sector. We hope this blog serves as the direction and motivation for you all to serve the nation. Jai Hind