At the India TV 'She' Conclave, squadron leaders Neha and Akanksha spoke about their experiences in the Indian Air Force and shared insights about Operation Sindoor. The two officers highlighted the importance of training, courage, and equal opportunities for women serving on the frontlines while also reflecting on the changing role of women in the armed forces. Squadron leader Akanksha said that they were fully prepared for Operation Sindoor and had undergone rigorous training to face such challenges.
She noted that when the moment arrived, the emotions were mixed, but their training and commitment helped them stay focused on the task at hand. According to her, members of the armed forces are always prepared to respond whenever duty calls.
Women cannot shy away from any front: Squadron leader Neha
Squadron leader Neha emphasised that women today are proving themselves in every role, including frontline duties. She said women should not hesitate to step forward when it comes to serving the nation. She added that every individual in the armed forces, whether male or female, works with the same dedication and commitment towards the country.
No discrimination in the Air Force: Squadron leader Akanksha
Speaking about opportunities in the Indian Air Force, Akanksha said she has always been encouraged to take on flying responsibilities. She recalled being part of important assignments, including missions in challenging regions like Siachen and flights involving VVIPs such as the President and the Prime Minister. She said that while the Air Force does not discriminate in assigning responsibilities, society still has a long way to go in achieving complete equality.
People respect the uniform and rank: Squadron leader Akanksha
Squadron leader Akanksha said that the uniform and rank command respect when she walks into a room. However, she noted that women often have to put in extra effort to prove themselves. "People respect the uniform and the rank when I enter a room. Women sometimes have to make that extra effort," she said, adding that the situation is gradually improving. According to her, the most important factor in the armed forces is competence and preparation, not gender.
"If I am not prepared for a mission, that shows. Preparation isn't dependent on whether you are male or female," she said.
'Flying the Prime Minister comes with immense responsibility'
Speaking about flying VVIP missions, Akanksha said that being entrusted with flights involving leaders such as the Prime Minister carries both pride and immense responsibility. "It is a moment of pride, but there is also pressure. There is a standard procedure, and there is no room for error," she said.
She explained that such assignments demand complete focus and coordination, as pilots are not only responsible for flying the aircraft but also for managing the mission. "You are not just a pilot; you are a mission manager. You have to coordinate with teams on the ground, remain alert and vigilant, and ensure everything runs smoothly," she said, adding that pilots repeatedly review their preparations and notes before such missions.
Squadron leader Neha spoke about flying and handling the MiG-21
Squadron leader Neha also spoke about her experience of flying the MiG-21, one of the Indian Air Force's most well-known fighter aircraft. She said operating the aircraft requires intense focus, discipline, and complete familiarity with procedures.
Neha explained that flying a fighter jet like the MiG-21 leaves very little room for hesitation, and pilots must rely on their training and preparation while handling the aircraft. She added that the key to flying such aircraft lies in constant practice and staying composed in demanding situations, noting that the same standards apply to every pilot in the force regardless of gender.
A rescue mission in the Northeast that stayed with squadron leader Akanksha
Recalling one of the most memorable moments of her career, Akanksha spoke about an early mission when she was a youngflying lieutenantt posted in the Northeast. She said an Army jawan had been injured and needed urgent evacuation, despite difficult weather conditions and challenging terrain. Trusting her abilities, her flight commander asked her to undertake the mission.
"It was my first casualty evacuation in such tough terrain," she recalled. Akanksha said the moment she learned that the injured soldier had been safely rescued was deeply fulfilling. "When I got to know that the injured jawan was safe, I felt extremely happy. Moments like these remind you why you chose this uniform," she concluded.