The journey that began in 1992, with the IAF opening its doors to the women officers in Ground Duty branches culminated in 2015 with the training of women officers as Fighter pilots.

With this ground breaking move, the IAF had come full circle from inducting women as short-service commissioned officers in various combat roles on ground to deploy them in combat roles in air, an area long considered out of bounds.

In fact, the Indian Air Force was the first amongst the three services to offer Permanent Commission to the women officers - a significant milestone in the progress towards gender equality in India.

The journey of women in the IAF embodies their determination, resilience and progress. From combat roles to leadership positions, women in IAF have slowly and steadily shattered age old stereotypes.

From Wing Commander Shaliza Dhami who was the first woman to fly Mi-17 V5, or Squadron Leader Minty Agarwal who guided the IAF's air defence during Balakot strike, or Flight Lieutenant Avani Chaturvedi, who became the first Indian woman fighter pilot to fly the solo sortie of MiG 21 Bison or Flight Lieutenant Gunjan Saxena flying in the combat zone during the 1999 Kargil war or the young Squadron Leader Arpita Singh passionately flying her Cheetal helicopter in the Siachen Glaciers; women in IAF have achieved remarkable milestones, breaking through the glass ceiling.

In fact, the annals of IAF is replete with stories of the daughters of everyday common Indians, be it the vegetable vendor or the casual labourer, painting the IAF's blue canvas with their courage and perseverance and giving wings to their dreams.

These women have not only paved the way for others but have also redefined the role of women in India's defence forces.

Owing to IAF's gender neutral HR policies that promote equity and equality and the safe secure work environment that fosters growth and progress, the number of women in IAF have been steadily increasing. Though still not adequate, the symbolic value of their presence cannot be overstated.

Women in the IAF have come a long way and these past thirty years have been a witness to their trials and tribulations. Their journey is a testimony to the evolving nature of India's defence forces, where inclusivity and professionalism are taking precedence over gender.

Though there are “still miles to go before I sleep”, but the courage and determination displayed by these trailblazing women is surely catapulting the IAF beyond the 'Blue Yonder' and encouraging many more to dare and dream and work hard to achieve their goals.

A large number of these inspiring women in blue are part of the Air show at Marina Beach in Chennai on 06 Oct 24.