Prior to her appointment as the President’s ADC, Solankee served in Hyderabad in the Navy’s ordnance (defence production) division.
Women have been shattering shackles and redefining limits in every area. They are pioneers, change-makers, and symbols of strength and resilience, showcasing that no dream is too big and no barrier is unbreakable. In a proud and historic moment for the Indian Navy, Lieutenant Commander Yashasvi Solankee has become the first woman officer from the Indian Navy to be appointed as Aide-De-Camp (ADC) to the President of India. Breaking barriers and setting a powerful example, Lieutenant Commander Yashaswi Solankee’s appointment marks a significant step forward, as no woman from the Navy has ever held this esteemed position before.
The President of India is the Supreme Commander of all three branches of the Armed Forces: the Army, the Air Force, and the Navy. Traditionally, the President is assisted by five Aide-De-Camps (ADCs): three from the Army, and one each from the Air Force and the Navy. Yashaswi Solankee has now joined President Droupadi Murmu’s team, and this marks a proud and inspiring moment for the Indian Navy.
Hailing from Bharuch, Gujarat, Yashasvi was appointed to the role in April 2025 and then subsequently underwent about a month-long orientation and training. She was formally presented the characteristic “Aiguillette” by the President on May 9, representing the formal declaration of an Aide-De-Camp (ADC).
The President’s ADCs are the conduit to the First Citizen of India. The ADC is present with the President in all official ceremonial functions and events and ensures any communication necessary with the Rashtrapati Bhavan, government departments, or, in particular, the three Services. A duty room is located immediately adjacent to the President’s chamber so that the ADC is only a call to the President away. Occasionally, the ADCs are even permanently on duty by duty roster for 24 hours at a time — there is a significant amount of time and effort spent ensuring the time is always available to the President at whatever time of day or night, which demonstrates their commitment to ‘service before self.’
According to the AajTak report, Yashaswi Solankee will serve in this prestigious role for the next two and a half to three years. During this time, she will accompany the President at all times during official programs, meetings, and ceremonial events, providing continuous support and assistance. Yashasvi Solankee’s appointment inspires millions of young girls. It is a powerful reminder that women are increasingly taking their rightful place in the defence and leadership structures of the nation, breaking barriers and establishing a presence where it truly matters.
Yashasvi Solankee mentioned that the role demands thorough preparation ahead of every presidential engagement, including staying informed about the guests and upcoming events. It’s essential, she explained, because briefing the President is part of the responsibility, and any question can come her way. She also reflected on how unexpected this opportunity was for her, admitting that becoming the President’s ADC was never something she had envisioned or even considered, simply because it didn’t seem within reach.
“We prepare for all the engagements and take up-to-date information about who is coming to meet the President, because we have to brief her before every engagement, and she can ask anything,” she was quoted as saying to the Indian Express.
Prior to her appointment as the President’s ADC, Solankee served in Hyderabad in the Navy’s ordnance (defence production) division. While speaking to The Indian Express, Solankee reflected on her journey, noting that she began as a technical officer with limited exposure beyond her core responsibilities. While she had general knowledge, it was, in her words, “very basic.” But things changed drastically with her new role — she now has to stay updated constantly, every hour, even every minute.
In an interview with the Indian Express, she stated, “I had never dreamt of getting selected as the ADC to the President. This was never on my bucket list, because I didn’t know this may be possible.” Furthermore, she stated that the job requires her to be alert at all times, as she could be asked anything, anytime, and needs to be prepared with the right information. What’s said or conveyed carries weight, she emphasized, because the President acts based on those briefings. Interestingly, among her siblings, Solankee is the only one who chose to join the armed forces — a distinction she carries with quiet pride.
