Kolhapur’s Saee Jadhav Makes History as First Woman Territorial Army Officer to Pass Out of IMA

PUNE, Dec 18: Saee Jadhav of Kolhapur has scripted history by becoming the first woman Territorial Army officer to complete pre-commissioning training at the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun, breaking the institution’s 93-year-old tradition of male-only officer training.

The 23-year-old was commissioned as a Lieutenant during the Passing Out Parade of the 157th course, held last week, marking a historic milestone for the academy established in 1932. She was formally commissioned into service on December 13 at IMA, Dehradun.

Saee has been inducted into the 130 Territorial Army (Ecological) Battalion of the Kumaon Regiment at Pithoragarh in Uttarakhand. Her father, Major Sandip Jadhav, a serving Territorial Army officer, said she is currently pursuing an MBA through distance learning while preparing for competitive examinations and the Territorial Army selection.

“She appeared for the Territorial Army exam in December 2023. There was only one vacancy for a woman officer and she topped the merit list, leading to her selection,” Major Jadhav said, adding that she represents the fourth generation of the Jadhav family to serve the nation.

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis congratulated Saee Jadhav, calling her achievement a historic and inspiring milestone for young girls across the country. He described her success as a matter of pride for Maharashtra and a shining example of dedication and service to the nation. (Agencies)