Major Navya Shekhawat Becomes India’s First Woman Army Officer ADC to the President

Major Navya Shekhawat has become the first woman from the Indian Army to be appointed Aide-De-Camp (ADC) to President Droupadi Murmu in July 2026. She serves at Rashtrapati Bhavan, one of the most respected protocol postings in the armed forces.

Key Details of Major Navya Shekhawat's Appointment

1. She belongs to the Army Service Corps.
2. She joined the Army through the Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination.
3. She trained at the Officers Training Academy (OTA), Chennai.
4. She is the first woman Army officer to serve as the President's ADC.

Women entered the Army through the Short Service Commission in 1992. A 2020 Supreme Court decision then strengthened the chance for eligible women officers to get permanent commissions on terms similar to men.

What is Aide-De-Camp (ADC)?

An ADC is a commissioned officer attached to a senior constitutional or military authority. The officer assists during official engagements and must show discipline, discretion, and proper military etiquette.

1. Services: ADCs can come from the Army, Navy, or Air Force, depending on the office.
2. Selection: This is not an entry-level post. Officers are chosen internally based on performance, conduct, and suitability for protocol duties.
3. Experience: Officers usually have 5 to 7 years of service. Captains, majors, and equivalent Navy and Air Force ranks may be considered.
4. Tenure: Generally about three years.
5. Identification: ADCs wear ceremonial features like aiguillettes (golden shoulder cords).
6. Other ADCs: Governors usually have two ADCs, one from the armed forces and one from the State Police. The three service chiefs also have designated ADCs.

What is an Aide-De-Camp (ADC) to the President of India?

The President is the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, so this appointment carries special national importance.

How many ADCs are appointed to the President of India?

The President is traditionally assisted by five ADCs. Three come from the Army, and one each from the Navy and Air Force.

First Woman ADC to the President of India

Lieutenant Commander Yashasvi Solanki of the Indian Navy became the first woman ADC to the President in May 2025.

First Woman Army Officer ADC to the President of India

Major Navya Shekhawat followed as the first Army woman officer in this role. She is the second woman overall in the President's ADC group.

Role and Responsibilities of ADC

1. ADCs help manage schedules, meetings, official visits, ceremonies, and communication. They also make sure protocol and military etiquette are followed at important events.
2. Ceremonial duties: ADCs are seen at state ceremonies, military functions, investiture ceremonies, and national events, showing the link between the armed forces and national leadership.
3. Coordination role: They coordinate with military formations, civil authorities, and officials so that programs involving senior authorities run smoothly.