India vs. Pakistan: A Comparative Analysis of Women in the Armed Forces (2025)
The roles and recognition of women in the armed forces of India and Pakistan have evolved over the years, reflecting broader societal changes and policy reforms. This article provides a comparative overview of the participation, achievements, and challenges faced by women in the military establishments of both nations as of 2025.
🇮🇳 Women in the Indian Armed Forces
Historical Context and Progression
Since the early 1990s, India has progressively integrated women into its armed forces beyond medical roles. Women now serve as officers in various branches, including the Corps of Engineers, Corps of Signals, Army Air Defense, Army Service Corps, Army Ordnance Corps, Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers, Army Aviation Corps, Intelligence Corps, Judge Advocate General Branch, and Army Education Corps .(SP's Aviation, The Financial Express)
Combat Roles and Leadership
India has been at the forefront of expanding combat roles for women. In 2023, Group Captain Shaliza Dhami became the first woman officer in the Indian Air Force to command a frontline combat unit . Additionally, women have been inducted as fighter pilots, challenging traditional gender roles within the military .(Time, www.ndtv.com, Time)
Recent Milestones
In a significant development, Wing Commander Vyomika Singh and Colonel Sofiya Qureshi led the official briefing on 'Operation Sindoor' in May 2025, showcasing the increasing prominence of women in strategic military roles .(www.ndtv.com)
🇵🇰 Women in the Pakistan Armed Forces
Historical Context and Progression
Women have been part of Pakistan's armed forces since its inception, primarily in medical and administrative roles. Over time, their participation has expanded, albeit with certain limitations.(Time)
Combat Roles and Leadership
While women in Pakistan's military have made significant strides, their roles in direct combat remain restricted. Notably, in 2020, Nigar Johar became the first woman in Pakistan's history to be promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General and was appointed as the Surgeon General of the Pakistan Army .(Wikipedia)
Recent Milestones
In 2024, Dr. Helen Mary Roberts was promoted to the rank of Brigadier, becoming the first woman from Pakistan's Christian community to achieve this rank in the Army Medical Corps . Additionally, Pakistani women have increasingly participated in international military training programs, with a 150% surge in the number of female officers receiving training in the United States over the past decade .(Wikipedia, The Media Line)
Comparative Overview
| Aspect | India | Pakistan |
|---|---|---|
| Combat Roles | Open to women across various branches | Limited; primarily in medical and administrative roles |
| Leadership Positions | Women have commanded combat units and led operations | Women have achieved high ranks in medical corps |
| Training Opportunities | Access to premier defense academies and combat training | Increasing participation in international training programs |
| Recent Milestones | Women leading strategic operations and briefings | First female Lieutenant General and Brigadier from minority community |
Conclusion
Both India and Pakistan have made notable progress in integrating women into their armed forces, reflecting changing societal norms and policy reforms. India has been more proactive in opening combat roles and leadership positions to women, while Pakistan has seen significant achievements in medical and administrative domains. Continued efforts in both countries are essential to further empower women in the military and harness their full potential.