A new chapter has opened for women in India’s armed forces. Air Vice Marshal Shakti Sharma has created history by becoming the first woman officer from the non-medical stream in the Indian Defence Services to attain the rank of Air Vice Marshal, or its equivalent.

On September 1, she assumed charge as Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Education) at Air Headquarters, marking a milestone not just in her career, but in the journey of women in uniform.

Three Decades of Service

Commissioned into the Education Branch of the Indian Air Force on June 18, 1994, Sharma has built an impressive career spanning more than 30 years. She has served at training establishments, field stations, command headquarters and Air Headquarters, taking on responsibilities across the IAF.

Her contributions have also extended beyond traditional military roles. She played a key role in establishing IAF Chairs of Excellence at IIT Kanpur and Pune University, strengthening academic and strategic collaboration in defence.

She also became the first woman officer from the Tri-Services to command a Sainik School, serving as Principal of Sainik School, Kapurthala.

Breaking a Long-Standing Ceiling

Sharma’s achievement comes against the backdrop of the expanding role of women in India’s military. The IAF began granting Permanent Commission to women officers in 2010, opening wider avenues for long-term careers, promotions and professional courses.

The Army and Navy had begun offering Permanent Commission in select branches in 2008, with opportunities later expanding significantly.

Yet reaching the highest ranks remains fiercely competitive, with promotions dependent on performance, career progression and limited vacancies.

More Women Are Breaking Barriers

Sharma’s achievement follows a series of firsts by women in the IAF. In 2023, Group Captain Shaliza Dhami became the first woman officer to command a frontline combat unit.

More recently, Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth became the first woman pilot to clear the Fighter Combat Leader course, while Squadron Leader Saanya became the first woman IAF officer to earn the elite Category-A Qualified Flying Instructor qualification.  

Each milestone pushes the ceiling a little higher. And with Air Vice Marshal Shakti Sharma now breaking through it, the skies have opened a little wider for the women who follow.