The Indian Armed Forces have made significant progress in achieving gender equality, but there is still room for improvement.

*Milestones:*

1. 1992: Women inducted into Armed Forces as officers.
2. 2004: Women allowed in combat support roles.
3. 2015: Women allowed in combat roles in Indian Air Force (IAF).
4. 2019: Women allowed in combat roles in Indian Army and Navy.
5. 2020: Supreme Court orders permanent commission for women officers.

*Current Status:*

1. Women comprise 3% of total armed forces personnel.
2. 1,500+ women officers serve in Army, Navy, and IAF.
3. Women serve in various roles: pilots, engineers, medical officers, and more.

*Challenges:*

1. Limited opportunities for women in combat roles.
2. Stereotypes and biases persist.
3. Limited representation in senior ranks.
4. Infrastructure and facilities for women personnel.
5. Societal attitudes and family pressures.

*Reforms and Initiatives:*

1. Increased recruitment of women.
2. Training programs for women officers.
3. Separate facilities and infrastructure.
4. Support systems for women personnel.
5. Review of promotion policies.

*International Comparison:*

1. India ranks 13th in women’s representation in armed forces (Global Gender Gap Report).
2. Countries like US, UK, and Canada have higher women’s representation.

*Way Forward:*

1. Increase women’s recruitment and retention.
2. Expand combat roles and opportunities.
3. Address stereotypes and biases.
4. Improve infrastructure and facilities.
5. Encourage women to join and stay in the armed forces.