As India celebrates its 57th Republic Day, we look at our most profound symbol of national pride -- the Indian soldier. In a time of dwindling virtues, it is in them that Indians have rested great hope and found exceptional pride.

Almost a decade after the Indian armed forces began inducting women officers into active service, more and more young women are opting to join the defence forces. They have trained alongside men, made good officers and carved a place for themselves in what was perhaps the last male bastion.

Rediff features a batch of young lady officers undergoing training at the Air Defence College. Only the second batch of women to be inducted into the regiment, this is a slice of a day in their lives.

Reportage: Archana Masih. Photographs: Jewella C Miranda