New Delhi, Sept. 1 -- Indian Air Force woman officer Shakti Sharma is recorded as the first woman officer from the non-medical stream in the Indian Defence Forces to attain the rank of Air Vice Marshal, marking a significant milestone in the continuing transformation of the armed forces. The Indian Air Force, on Monday, announced the significant development.
AVM Sharma assumed charge as Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Education) at Air Headquarters on the very day, taking on a key responsibility in the Indian Air Force's education and institutional development framework.
Commissioned into the Education Branch of the Indian Air Force on June 18, 1994, AVM Sharma brings more than three decades of distinguished service and extensive experience across a wide range of assignments. Her career has included postings at training establishments, field stations, command headquarters and Air Headquarters, giving her a broad understanding of the operational, training and institutional dimensions of the force.
Air Vice Marshal Sharma has played a significant role in strengthening the IAF's engagement with leading academic institutions. Among her notable initiatives was the establishment of IAF Chairs of Excellence at IIT Kanpur and Pune University, aimed at fostering academic collaboration, research and strategic defence engagement.
AVM Sharma also scripted another first during her career when she became the first woman officer from the Tri-Services to command a Sainik School. As Principal of Sainik School, Kapurthala, she led an institution that plays an important role in preparing young students for careers in the armed forces and public service.
Her elevation to the rank of Air Vice Marshal is being viewed as a defining moment in the journey of women officers in India's defence forces, reflecting the expanding opportunities and responsibilities available to women across traditionally male-dominated military roles.
With more than 30 years of service behind her, AVM Shakti Sharma's career represents a combination of professional excellence, institutional leadership and a commitment to nurturing India's future military talent. Her historic elevation adds another significant chapter to the growing list of milestones achieved by women officers in the country's armed forces.
As she assumes her new responsibility at Air Headquarters. Indian Air Force says her journey stands as an inspiration for generations of women officers who aspire to rise through the ranks and serve the nation with distinction.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.