Vice Army Chief salutes women

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Chennai: Saturday was the day of elation for 70 newly commissioned women officers at the Officers' Training Academy at Chennai.

The day of the Passing Out Parade completes their transformation from a civilian to an Army Officer and proclaims them fit to enter a world that has been dominated by men for ages.

As many as 140 cadets are commissioned at the OTA every year, the highest number of women to pass out from any defence institution. It might be a low ratio, but what's heartening is that it's also a pointer that they are here to stay despite some hiccups.

"I would say all young women should join the Army. It's an elite profession and it stands you out from the rest of the professions. It gives you that persona that no other profession gives," Lt Neha said.

Meanwhile, the Vice Army Chief, Lt General Pattabhiraman, who recently hit the headlines for reportedly declaring that Army units could do without women, gave a glowing commendation to the newly commissioned officers on Friday.

"Women officers today are doing very well in the Army. They're able to take up any challenging assignment given to them. Recently the Government has asked us to look into more avenues where women could be employed," Pattabhiraman said.

As many as 1,133 lady cadets have passed out of the Academy so far. While they may not be able to match up with the men in terms of numbers, they believe in courage and skill, they're second to none can definitely make a difference.