Dear Editor,
Really, it was a golden letter day in India’s military history when three Flying Officers Avani, Bhawana and Mohana hailing from states of Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan and Bihar were commissioned into the fighter squadron by the Defence Minister Parrikar a few days back. This is indeed a matter of pride for all us Indians and these newly inducted Flying Officers deserve commendation for accomplishing this rare feat. They have become the first women fighters in the IAF and thus created history. These are surely delightful and rejoicing moments for them and their family members in particular and the whole nation in general. Up till now, it was considered that taking risk and embarking on path of adventure had been the exclusive domain of men only but these brave ladies have shown that they too are equally capable of facing all sort of challenges and join a profession that could present enormous adventurers in their way. They have shown their steely resolve and indomitable spirit by opting for the job involving tremendous risk. They have certainly done a great proud to the nation. They have exhibited to the world that they too have the stamina and strength to fight the enemy and defend the national boundaries along with men. Their accomplished feat also indicates to the world that if got a chance, women too can perform equally well in fields earlier often thought to be not befitting for them. They have surely broken gender barriers by this feat. These women have become icons in the eyes of the world and could be a source of inspiration for other women as well. The role for women in the military has been extended to other areas and rightly so keeping in view their exemplary performance. This will hopefully further open up new vistas for women in other wings of the military. Finally, great sincere applause for all of them. Surely, their names have been etched in India’s military history.
Ravi Sharma
Jammu