Content on the women in the Indian Armed Forces

 

WOMEN IN THE INDIAN ARMED FORCES

“Girls shouldn’t speak LOUD” – He said, Entire platoon waiting for her command, answered him silently.

The Indian Army commenced the induction of women in 1992, granting them commissions for a limited period in selected streams such as the Army Education Corps, Corps of Signals, Intelligence Corps, and Corps of Engineers. Women possess a natural inclination to encourage participation, share power and information, and display ruthlessness when necessary. They have a remarkable ability to boost the self-worth of their colleagues and extract their best qualities, which is a rare and desirable trait in a competent leader. While the armed forces in India are slowly opening their doors to women, their roles should be further diversified. For a long time, combat positions in the Indian Army have been exclusive to men. However, India is on track to join the select few countries worldwide that have broken the gender barrier. Women have already served in administrative and technical roles in various corps, but their entry into combat roles, beginning with the Military Police, marks a new chapter. he most recent ruling by the Supreme Court acknowledges gender equality within the Armed Forces by granting women officers the opportunity to occupy command positions.

The debate on women in combat roles resurfaces periodically, despite women having served in such capacities in other countries earlier. It has taken many years to reach a point where women are now being considered for combat roles in the Armed Forces. Unfortunately, some individuals, mostly retired generals, still harbour the belief that women should remain the "weaker" sex within the forces. Their arguments reflect traditional biases against women and rely on well-known physiological differences, such as pulse rate and physical strength, while disregarding the innate strengths found in women's DNA. When evaluating the qualities necessary for a competent soldier and comparing them between men and women, women may even outperform men in some aspects. Women have already established themselves as administrators in supporting services, carving out a niche for themselves.

Before addressing whether women should be allowed to enter the Army, two factors must be considered: the nature of the Army as an institution and the nature of combat itself. If military service is similar to civilian jobs, then women should receive equal opportunities, as they have proven themselves to be on par with men in various areas. Today, a woman who is willing to shoulder an equal burden as men can achieve any goal she desires. Critics of the combat exclusion rule argue that modern combat relies heavily on technology and does not necessitate the brute strength of traditional combat soldiers. There is considerable truth in this perspective.

India began recruiting women for non-medical positions in the armed forces in 1992. More recently, the government has taken the initial steps to include women in combat roles and has approved Air Force plans for female pilots to fly warplanes. In the past, men were the leaders while women fulfilled nurturing and subordinate roles. However, societal dynamics are constantly evolving, and traditional gender roles are being challenged. Consequently, determining the appropriate role for women in the Army, particularly in combat arms, continues to be a contentious issue both within the military and society as a whole. It is universally acknowledged that the primary purpose of militaries is not to generate employment but rather to ensure national security. Therefore, gender equality should not be compromised in the Armed Forces.

The utmost priority for the nation should be empowering women in governance. It is the most crucial and untapped source of societal energy that has been restrained for fifty years. In a country like India, which aspires to become a future global superpower, any form of gender-based discrimination in the Armed Forces would hinder progress. Women ought to be regarded as equal to men in nearly every aspect.

 Institutional and administrative policies, such as transfers and maternity leave, should be protected and periodically reviewed. India's attitude towards women must undergo a transformation to foster overall economic growth, empower women, and present a positive image globally. I strongly believe that in addition to military diplomacy, where the Indian Army seeks women language interpreters for military-to-military and international communications, the armed forces and the Indian government should take further steps to make similar decisions in other recruitment areas as well. India has a rich history of producing famous women freedom fighters and leaders since ancient times. Given that the birthplace of notable figures like Rani of Jhansi, Capt. Laxmi Sehgal, Sarojini Naidu, and numerous others, it is inevitable for feminism to eventually establish its presence within the Armed Forces.

With the recent judgment by the Supreme Court, women will have equal opportunities and benefits comparable to their male counterparts, including promotions, ranks, and pensions. They will also be allowed to serve for longer tenures. However, achieving true women empowerment, gender equality, and ensuring national security requires a significant positive shift in society's mindset. Such changes will undoubtedly contribute to a better India, not only economically but also in terms of women's empowerment and the country's global reputation.

" Beauty and elegance are not exclusive to those who wear crowns; some choose to wear caps and serve as heroes."

 

JAI HIND