In a historic achievement for the Indian Navy, Sub-Lieutenant Aastha Poonia has made waves by becoming the first woman to be inducted as a fighter pilot. This landmark moment took place during the graduation ceremony of the Second Basic Hawk Conversion Course on July 3 at INS Dega in Visakhapatnam.
The esteemed event was graced by Rear Admiral Janak Bevli, the Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Air), who presented the ‘Wings of Gold’ to both Sub-Lieutenant Poonia and Lieutenant Atul Kumar Dhull. The ceremony was marked by a sense of pride and accomplishment, attended by senior officers, instructors, and the families of the graduates.
Sub-Lieutenant Poonia’s entry into the fighter stream represents a major step forward in the Indian Navy’s commitment to gender inclusivity and operational excellence. This achievement follows a broader trend within the military, which has seen a rise in female officer recruitment, particularly in combat and technical branches. Since 2020, the Indian Navy has reported a 15 percent increase in female officers, demonstrating a commitment to diversifying its ranks.
This milestone aligns with India’s ongoing commitment to the “Nari Shakti” initiative, part of a larger global movement advocating for enhanced gender diversity in military forces. Military analysts emphasize that incorporating women into fighter and strategic roles fosters greater innovation, flexibility, and effectiveness in missions, offering diverse perspectives in operational planning and execution.
The graduation event at INS Dega not only showcased technical proficiency and the rigorous training undergone by the pilots but also served as a powerful statement about the evolving nature of the Indian Navy. It underscores the Navy’s dedication to being a modern, inclusive, and battle-ready maritime force committed to national security and equal opportunity for all.
