New Delhi, In a historic and symbolic moment during the 75th Republic Day parade at Kartavya Path in New Delhi, Squadron Leader Rashmi Thakur, an accomplished fighter controller, took charge of leading the marching contingent of the Indian Air Force (IAF). The parade, a testament to the nation’s achievements and capabilities, also featured a notable participation of a tri-services contingent of Agniveer Vayu (women), comprising a total of 48 participants.
Squadron Leader Thakur, originally from Shimla, shared her overwhelming emotions about the occasion, stating, “It is going to be a proud moment for all of us.” Having been commissioned on June 20, 2015, she reflected on her journey, highlighting the fulfilling and challenging aspects of serving in the IAF. Fighter controllers like Squadron Leader Thakur play a pivotal role in coordinating with fighter pilots on various aspects of air operations.
The Agniveer Vayu contingent, featuring 48 women personnel from the Navy and the Indian Army, stood as a powerful representation of the dedication and commitment of women in the armed forces. The aerial fly-past, a visual spectacle of precision, showcased 15 women pilots operating various platforms, including Tejas and SU 30 MKI combat jets, alongside the recently inducted C-295 transport aircraft.
Squadron Leader Thakur was accompanied by three women supernumerary officers – Squadron Leader Sumita Yadav, Squadron Leader Pratiti Ahluwalia, and Flight Lieutenant Kirti Rohil. The tableau presented during the parade conveyed the theme “Bharatiya Vayu Sena: Saksham, Sashakt, Atmanirbhar,” emphasizing the Indian Air Force’s capabilities and self-reliance.
Notably, six women from the fighter streams participated in the fly-past, contributing to the tableau’s dynamic presentation. Flight Lieutenant Ananya Sharma and Flying Officer Asma Sheikh, both Su-30 pilots, were among those presenting on the tableau. Flight Lieutenant Sharma, whose father was a MiG-21 fighter pilot in the IAF, expressed her excitement, stating, “It is a dream coming true for me.”
The participation of women aircrew in flying the C-295 transport aircraft, a recent induction into the IAF and set to be manufactured in India, added another significant dimension to the Republic Day parade, showcasing advancements in defense capabilities.
A grand total of 51 aircraft, including 29 fighter jets and 13 helicopters, from the IAF graced the Republic Day fly-past, providing a visual spectacle and underlining the strength and capabilities of the Indian Air Force.
