In a landmark achievement for the Indian Navy and the nation, Lieutenant Commander Divya Sharma has made history as the first woman in Indian naval history to be designated a Qualified Flying Instructor (QFI). Currently serving as a Dornier pilot at INAS 318, INS Utkrosh under the Andaman & Nicobar Command (ANC), her accomplishment represents a significant advancement in gender inclusion and empowerment within India’s armed forces.
Lt Cdr Sharma received her QFI certification after successfully completing an intensive training program at the prestigious Flying Instructors’ School. This qualification grants her the authority and expertise to train other pilots, a crucial addition to the field of naval aviation. The training course, which took place from April 24 to April 26, culminated in a ceremony held at INS Utkrosh in Port Blair, where senior naval officers honored her with a commemorative plaque and certification marking her achievement.
A native of Malviya Nagar in New Delhi, Lt Cdr Sharma has been at the forefront of naval aviation since 2020. She was one of the first women pilots to operate the Dornier 228 for maritime reconnaissance, joining the ranks of pioneering officers such as Lt Shubhangi Swaroop and Lt Shivangi. This notable milestone has paved the way for increased women’s engagement in strategic aerial missions.
The Dornier 228 plays a vital role in maritime surveillance and patrol duties, serving as a critical asset for the Indian Navy, particularly in the strategically significant Andaman and Nicobar region. This tri-services command is pivotal for regional security, overseeing essential sea lanes, including the Strait of Malacca.
Lt Cdr Sharma’s remarkable accomplishment is celebrated as a testament to ‘Nari Shakti’ (women’s power) and serves as an inspiration for future generations of servicewomen. It underscores the Navy’s commitment to gender inclusivity and its efforts to provide equal opportunities in traditionally male-dominated spheres.
This historic milestone is part of a broader progression towards increasing women’s roles in the Indian Navy. In 2022, the Navy executed its first all-women maritime reconnaissance mission over the North Arabian Sea, conducted by officers from INAS 314 in Porbandar. Such initiatives illustrate the Navy’s dedication to enhancing the representation of women in vital operational positions.
With her new role as a Qualified Flying Instructor, Lt Cdr Divya Sharma is poised to greatly influence the future of naval aviation. Beyond her flying expertise, she will mentor the next generation of pilots, embodying the powerful message of what can be achieved when determination meets opportunity in service to the nation.
