Ishita Sangwan and Meenakshi
New Delhi: In a historic milestone for women's empowerment in the armed forces, Ishita Sangwan from Haryana's Charkhi Dadri district and Meenakshi have become the first women in India to be commissioned as fighter pilots through the National Defence Academy (NDA) entry route.
After successfully completing three-and-a-half years of rigorous military training, the two cadets are set to be commissioned in Hyderabad. Their first posting will be at the Air Force Station in Bidar, Telangana, where they will begin their journey as fighter pilots serving the nation.
The achievement marks a significant moment in Indian military history, as Ishita and Meenakshi are the first women to become fighter pilots after joining the armed forces through the NDA.
Their success follows the landmark 2021 Supreme Court judgment that allowed women candidates to appear for the NDA entrance examination and pursue a career in the armed forces through the prestigious academy.
Ishita Sangwan, a resident of Chhapar village in Haryana's Charkhi Dadri district, had initially planned to prepare for the civil services. However, the Supreme Court's decision opened a new avenue for young women aspiring to serve the country in uniform.
According to her father, Charan Singh Sangwan, Ishita was preparing for her Class 12 board examinations when the court delivered its historic ruling.
Just one month later, she appeared for the NDA written examination and successfully cleared it. Her selection letter arrived on August 6, 2022, and she joined the NDA in Pune on August 9, beginning her journey toward becoming a fighter pilot.
Following years of intensive military and aviation training, both Ishita and Meenakshi are now ready to take on operational responsibilities in the Indian Air Force. Their posting at the Bidar training center will mark the next phase of their professional careers as fighter pilots.
Sharing their message for aspiring young women, Ishita and Meenakshi encouraged girls to dream big and pursue their goals with determination and dedication.
They said that no goal is beyond reach if one remains committed and works hard. According to them, achieving a dream not only brings happiness but also creates a lifelong sense of pride and accomplishment.
The commissioning of India's first NDA-trained women fighter pilots is being viewed as a landmark achievement in expanding opportunities for women in the armed forces. Their success is expected to inspire a new generation of young women to consider careers in defence and aviation.
