Despite recent steps towards inducing women into combat roles, their participation remains low. Examine the key challenges impeding the greater inclusion of women in the Indian armed forces. Also, suggest suitable measures to enhance their participation.

# RECENT STEPS TAKEN TO INDUCT WOMEN IN COMBAT ROLES: 1) Babita Punia case (2020) -> Supreme Court mandated Permanent Commission for Women Officers in armed forces. 2) NDA -> recruitment opened for women - Recently first batch of 17 female cadets passed out from NDA. 3) Greater Roles Provided - Avani Chaturvedi -> first female fighter jet pilot. => Despite these laudable initiatives, Women participation in Combat Roles remains low. # KEY CHALLENGES IMPEDING INCLUSION: 1) Patriarchal Mindset - Propels the myth that women are too emotional to lead in defence. 2) Historical Background - Traditionally, men have played greater combat roles while women being limited to pink collar jobs 3) Societal Perception - About lack of safety for women among all males. 4) Lack of Empowerment - Educational institutions haven't promoted inspiration among women for this field.