The National Defence Academy has initiated key reforms aimed at strengthening the training ecosystem for its growing number of female cadets, including a proposal to recruit additional physical training instructors and introduce a formal credit system for physical training. These proposals have been submitted to the Ministry of Defence and are currently under consideration.
The move comes as the academy adapts to evolving training requirements following the induction of women cadets. At present, female cadets undergo training under male instructors as part of a gender-neutral approach. However, officials acknowledge that there is an increasing need for specialised support and adequate staffing to meet the physical training demands of women cadets without compromising the academy’s high standards.
To address the shortage of trainers, the NDA has proposed the recruitment of additional physical education instructors, particularly from personnel inducted under the Agniveer Scheme. This step is expected to bridge existing gaps and enhance the quality of training being imparted.
Vice Admiral Anil Jaggi, Commandant of the NDA, stated that physical training remains a core component of the academy’s curriculum. He highlighted that with the inclusion of female cadets, there is a pressing need to augment instructional staff to ensure effective and inclusive training delivery. He also expressed confidence that the Ministry of Defence will approve the proposal, enabling the academy to maintain its rigorous training framework.
The Commandant made these remarks on the sidelines of the Sabhiki Cup 2026, an inter-academy sporting event being hosted by the NDA from March 17 to 21. The event has brought together 429 cadets, including 98 women, from premier military training institutions such as the Indian Military Academy, Air Force Academy, Indian Naval Academy, and the Officers Training Academy.
Cadets are participating in a range of competitive disciplines including cross-country, football, basketball, hockey, volleyball and squash, testing both endurance and teamwork. Notably, this edition marks the first time female cadets are competing alongside their male counterparts in such an inter-academy format.
In parallel, the NDA is also preparing to align its academic curriculum with the National Education Policy 2020. Planned changes include the introduction of advanced subjects such as artificial intelligence, quantum technology and drone training, reflecting the modernisation of military education.
Currently, physical training at the NDA does not carry academic credit. Recognising its integral role in shaping military leaders, the academy has proposed bringing physical training under a formal credit system. This would acknowledge the unique blend of academic learning and physical conditioning that defines NDA training and ensure a more holistic evaluation of cadets.
The twin proposals signal a significant step in the NDA’s ongoing transformation, aimed at making its training ecosystem more inclusive, structured and aligned with contemporary defence and educational needs.
