Internal Security and Disaster Management: June 2025 Current Affairs | Current Affairs & General Knowledge - CLAT PDF Download

Women in Indian Armed Forces

Why in News?

For the first time in Indian military history, 17 women cadets graduated from the National Defence Academy (NDA), marking a historic step toward gender-inclusive military leadership and opening the path for future women service chiefs.

Key Takeaways

• 17 women cadets graduated from NDA, a significant milestone.
• Women have gradually entered various roles in the Indian Armed Forces since the late 19th century.
• Challenges persist, including limited combat role opportunities and cultural biases.

Additional Details

• Early Military Roles for Women: Women first joined military service through the Military Nursing Service established in 1888, with the Indian Army Medical Corps following in 1958, allowing women doctors to receive regular commissions.
• Non-Medical Entry: Introduced in 1992, the Women Special Entry Scheme (WSES) allowed women to serve as Short Service Commission officers in non-combat branches.
• Legal Framework: The Army Act of 1950 initially limited women's roles, but subsequent government notifications expanded their inclusion in various branches.
• Permanent Commission and Judicial Intervention: Women were granted Permanent Commission in 2008, with a landmark Supreme Court ruling in 2020 allowing them to serve in all arms where Short Service Commission is applicable.
• Current Status: Women now comprise about 4% of the Indian Army, with significant roles in the Air Force and Navy, including combat positions.

Despite these advancements, women in the armed forces face numerous challenges:

• Physical Demands: Combat roles require high physical endurance, which can be challenging due to biological differences.
• Cultural Bias: Many personnel come from conservative backgrounds, leading to prejudice against women in leadership roles.
• Limited Opportunities: Some combat roles remain inaccessible, limiting women's experience in key areas.
• Work-Life Balance: Issues related to marriage and childcare can disrupt career continuity for women.
• Psychological Pressures: Women often deal with isolation and scrutiny in predominantly male environments.
• Infrastructure Issues: There is a need for improved facilities such as gender-sensitive healthcare and separate accommodations.

To address these challenges while maintaining operational effectiveness, several strategies can be implemented:

• Training and Sensitization: Implement equitable training standards and programs to address biases.
• Monitoring and Evaluation: Establish a Gender Equality Index to track women's participation and advancement.
• Role Models and Representation: Celebrate achievements of women leaders to inspire future generations.
• International Best Practices: Adapt successful models from other countries, such as the IDF and US military.
• Cultural Sensitization: Promote acceptance of women leaders through mentorship and competitions.
• Infrastructure Improvements: Enhance facilities to support women's well-being and work-life balance.

India's journey toward inclusive armed forces reflects a commitment to empower women in all spheres of public service, fostering a confident and capable military leadership essential for national security and progress.

National Florence Nightingale Awards 2024

Why in News?

The President of India recently presented the National Florence Nightingale Awards for the year 2025 during a ceremony at Rashtrapati Bhavan. This prestigious award recognizes the exceptional contributions of nurses and nursing professionals across various sectors.

Key Takeaways

• The awards were instituted by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India in 1973.
• It honors outstanding nursing personnel working in Central, State/UTs, and Voluntary Organizations.
• Each awardee receives a Certificate of Merit, a cash prize of Rs. 1,00,000, and a medal.

Additional Details

• Eligibility: Nurses and nursing professionals working in hospital, community, educational, or administrative settings can be nominated for this prestigious national award.
• About Florence Nightingale: She was an English social reformer and statistician, recognized as the founder of modern nursing. Nightingale gained prominence during the Crimean War by organizing care for wounded soldiers and establishing the first scientifically based nursing school at St. Thomas’ Hospital in London.
• Awards Received by Nightingale: In 1883, she was awarded the Royal Red Cross by Queen Victoria and became the first woman to receive the Order of Merit in 1907.

These awards serve as a testament to the dedication and service of nursing professionals, reflecting their crucial role in healthcare and society.