Lt. Parul Dadhwal : First woman from five-generation military family created history

This is perhaps the first time in the history of the Indian Army that a daughter from a family with five generations of military service has joined the ranks, especially when both her father and brother are also serving in the army. This daughter of a military family is Lieutenant Parul Dadhwal, who graduated from the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai and was commissioned into the Indian Army’s Ordnance Corps.

Not only that, Lieutenant Parul topped her course and was awarded the President’s Gold Medal for her outstanding performance. This reflects her exceptional passion and ability.

A resident of Janauri village in Hoshiarpur district of Punjab, Lieutenant Parul comes from an area known for its strong military tradition. Her commissioning is a special moment, blending old tradition with modernity, as the family’s first female member is now wearing the olive green uniform of the Indian Army.

An army officer said, “Having three serving officers from two generations of the same family is a rare achievement. It is a testament to their unwavering commitment to the nation. Lieutenant Parul Dadhwal’s commissioning not only strengthens this glorious military tradition but also reflects the growing role of women in the Indian Armed Forces.”

The Dadhwal family’s military service tradition dates back to Subedar Harnam Singh of the 74th Punjab Regiment, her great-grandfather, who served from January 1, 1896, to July 16, 1924. Her great-uncle, Major L.S. Dadhwal served in the 3rd Jat Regiment, while the third generation saw distinguished service from Colonel Daljit Singh Dadhwal in the 7th JAK Rifles and Brigadier Jagat Jamwal in the 3rd Kumaon Regiment.

Lieutenant Parul has continued this tradition. Her father, Major General K.S. Dadhwal, and her brother, Captain Dhananjay Dadhwal, are serving in the 2nd Sikh Regiment of the Indian Army.