Dehradun, June 13 -- President Droupadi Murmu on Saturday said that the passing out of nine women cadets at the Indian Military Academy (IMA) in Dehradun, Uttarakhand is a "watershed moment" in the military academy's history, and is an inspiring example of the country's march towards women-led development.

"This is a watershed moment in the history of IMA. It is not only a milestone in the history of India's defence forces, but also an inspiring example of India's march towards women-led development. I am sure that many more women cadets will join the Academy," Murmu said while addressing the Passing Out Parade of the 158th Regular Course and the 141st Technical Graduate Course at the IMA.

Women were first inducted as officers under the...