June 18, 2016 is the date when India shall witness the first women fighter pilots in its history. Mohana Singh, Avani Chaturvedi and Bhawana Kanth, the flight cadets will be commissioned as IAF’s officers on this date. They are preparing to head for the last leg of their training. In 83 years of Indian Air Force’s history, this is really a defining moment.
Meet Avani Chaturvedi, Mohana Singh and Bhawana Kanth India’s First Female Fighter Pilots! Inspiration to many! Salute from every Indian citizen to them #WomenEmpowerment – #News Aur Chai, posted by News Aur Chai
The trio is undergoing rigorous training at Indian air base Hakempet, Hyderabad along with male cadets without concession in physical training and mental robustness. Everything is same for both genders.
The three came from entirely different backgrounds and pursued different careers before entering to the Air Force. Mohana’s father and grandfather are serving air force but they are in transport. But, Mohana from Rajasthan has always wanted to hold gears of cockpit. She took off her corporate job when sky was calling her.
Bhawana never saw defense background in her life, she is from Bihar where such brave tasks are relied upon men only. Fortunately, her parents backed her to chase her dreams and they are proud now.
Avani didn’t have to fight much as being a pilot was her childhood dream. She strongly believes in gender parity that’s why she chose the field where there is no difference in tasks for both sexes in ground or in air.
These ladies are marshaling a new era of gender equality but, female pilots are not permanent deal in IAF. These three shall be recruited for a period of five years on trial basis. Judging the performances of these three, IAF will further plan to recruit female fighter pilots.
But for now, congratulations to three for moving strong and make all of us proud.
