Lt Commander Yashasvi Solankee as First Woman ADC to President

Breaking the tradition with grace

Lt Commander Yashasvi Solankee as First Woman ADC to President: In a proud moment for the Indian armed forces, Lieutenant Commander Yashasvi Solankee has become the first woman Aide-de-Camp (ADC) to the President of India, Droupadi Murmu. She officially took charge on May 9, 2025, after a meticulous selection and orientation process. This step not only reshapes military tradition but also highlights a stronger voice for women’s empowerment in Indian defense institutions.

A new face in a historic role

At just 27 years old, Solankee now stands at the crossroads of tradition and transformation. She hails from a technical background and was earlier posted with Naval Armament (Defence Production) in Hyderabad. Her new role as ADC is not just ceremonial; it brings with it a full-time operational responsibility with 24/7 availability near the President’s office.

Her duties include assisting the President during diplomatic meetings, national ceremonies, and even routine briefings. With this, she becomes an important link between the President’s office and various military and civil branches of the government.

A tough selection for a worthy post

The Aide-de-Camp post has traditionally been filled by three Army officers, one from the Navy, and one from the Air Force. For the first time in Indian history, women Navy officers were eligible to be considered. Solankee was one of three women shortlisted, all from the Navy.

The selection process was intense. It included a 15-day evaluation at Rashtrapati Bhavan, a personal interview with the President, and tests in physical fitness, mental sharpness, and communication. One of the requirements was a minimum height of 173 cm, a standard applied to all candidates.

Driving change through leadership

This appointment carries a strong message about changing mindsets within our most structured institutions. The armed forces, once seen as a male-dominated space, are now becoming more inclusive and reflective of modern India’s aspirations.

President Droupadi Murmu, India’s first tribal woman President, has often spoken of inclusive governance. Her support for appointing a woman ADC speaks volumes about her commitment to institutional change.

Static GK Tip: The post of ADC to the President is an honorary but highly responsible position, dating back to colonial times. It reflects both ceremonial and operational readiness of the nation’s armed forces.

Setting the tone for the future

Solankee’s appointment may open doors for many more women officers to serve at the highest levels of protocol and power. It also aligns with the broader national push for gender equality, including schemes like Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam.

As she said in her own words, “I now need to be updated every second, as the President can ask anything anytime.” That level of preparedness reflects her dedication to the job — and to the future it represents.

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