In a significant milestone for the Indian Air Force (IAF), Wing Commander Deepika Misra has become the first woman officer to be conferred with a gallantry award. Misra, a helicopter pilot from Rajasthan, was awarded the prestigious Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) for displaying exceptional courage during a flood relief operation in Madhya Pradesh. The award was presented to her by the IAF Chief Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari at an Investiture Ceremony held at the Air Force Auditorium in Subroto Park.
A Proud Moment for the IAF
Misra’s gallant act of bravery saved the lives of 47 people, including women and children, during the flood relief operation in northern Madhya Pradesh in August 2021. The rescue operation lasted for eight days and involved low-hover pick-ups and winching. Misra’s heroic efforts not only saved precious lives but also instilled a sense of safety among the common populace in the flood-affected area.
The IAF spokesperson stated that Misra’s award was a proud moment for the IAF, as it marked the first time that a gallantry award was conferred on a woman officer in the history of the IAF. While women officers from the IAF have received awards for their devotion to service in the past, Misra’s achievement is unprecedented.
Other Awardees at the Ceremony
Apart from Misra, 57 other personnel from the IAF and one from the Army were awarded at the ceremony. Two IAF officers were presented with the Yudh Seva Medal, while 13 officers and air warriors received the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry), 13 officers received the Vayu Sena Medal, and 30 were awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal.
Among the awardees were the personnel from IAF’s Garud unit, who had participated in the rescue operation after the Trikut Hills ropeway accident in Jharkhand’s Deoghar, which was considered one of the toughest rescue operations. Also, personnel who had taken part in anti-insurgency operations in the Kashmir valley were honored at the ceremony.
The IAF band contingent was led by Warrant Officer Ashok Kumar, who was awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal for his services to the force. Kumar has led the contingent for more than 15 years and has participated in Republic Day celebrations on Rajpath for the past 27 years.
Final Thoughts
Wing Commander Deepika Misra’s achievement is a proud moment for the Indian Air Force, and it is a testament to the increasing role of women in the Indian Armed Forces. Misra’s exemplary bravery and courage have set a new benchmark for women officers in the IAF, and it is a significant step towards gender equality in the armed forces.
