More Power To Women Army Officers: Defence Ministry Approves Permanent Commission In All 10 Eligible Branches

In a landmark decision, the ministry of defence (MoD) on Tuesday (5 March 2019) approved the grant of Permanent Commission to women officers in the Indian armed forces. This follows Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s announcement on the same in his Independence Day speech on 15 August 2018.

“Women officers will be granted Permanent Commission in the Indian Army in all the 10 branches where women are inducted for Short Service Commission,” said a government release.

Women officers currently serving on Short Service Commission (SSC) will be allowed to opt for Permanent Commission (PC) before completion of four years of Commissioned Service. “SSC Women officers will be considered for grant of PC based on suitability, merit etc and will be employed in various staff appointment,” added the release.

Difference Between SSC And PC

While a Permanent Commission offers a career in the Army until an officer retires, SSC for women officers is only extendable to 14 years of service. Also, PC officers are entitled to retirements benefits as per the last rank held by them before retirement. No such retirement benefits are available to SSC officers.