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Sub Lieutenant Aastha Poonia – First Woman Fighter Pilot of the Indian Navy

Why in News?

• Sub Lt. Aastha Poonia created history by becoming the first woman fighter pilot of the Indian Navy.
• She was awarded the prestigious “Wings of Gold” during the graduation ceremony of the Second Basic Hawk Conversion Course at INS Dega, Visakhapatnam.

Key Highlights

• Event: Graduation ceremony held at INS Dega, presided over by Rear Admiral Janak Bevli, Assistant Chief of Naval Staff (Air).
• Co-awardee: Lt. Atul Kumar Dhull also received the Wings of Gold.
• Significance: Marks the first time a woman has entered the Fighter Stream of Naval Aviation, traditionally dominated by men.
• Official Statement:
  • The Navy hailed it as “A new chapter in Naval Aviation.”
  • The Defence Ministry highlighted it as a step towards Nari Shakti, gender inclusivity, and equal opportunities in the armed forces.

Context

• Part of broader inclusion of women in combat roles across services.
• Recent examples:
  • Col. Sofiya Qureshi – senior woman officer in Army operations.
  • Wing Cdr. Vyomika Singh – symbol of women’s growing role in IAF.
    
    Updated - 4 July 2025 ; 4:56 PM | DD News