As the world celebrates International Women’s Day 2025, it is important to reflect on the remarkable progress made in advancing gender equality. One of the most groundbreaking moments in India’s military history came when Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth, and Mohana Singh became the first women fighter pilots in the Indian Air Force (IAF).

Breaking Barriers in the Skies

The induction of women into combat roles in the Indian Armed Forces was a historic shift in India’s defense sector. In 2016, these three trailblazers were the first to undergo fighter pilot training in the IAF. Today, they serve as role models for millions of young women aspiring to join the armed forces.

Squadron Leader Mohana Singh – The First Woman to Join the LCA Tejas Squadron

Mohana Singh Jitarwal, born in January 1992 in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan, comes from a military family. Her father, Pratap Singh Jitarwal, is a retired IAF Master Warrant Officer, and her grandfather was awarded the Vir Chakra posthumously.

In 2019, Mohana Singh became the first woman fighter pilot in the IAF to attain full operational status on the Hawk Mk.132 advanced jet trainer. She completed over 380 hours of flying, mastering Air-to-Air and Air-to-Ground combat techniques.

She later joined the elite 18 ‘Flying Bullets’ squadron, operating India’s indigenous LCA Tejas, making her the first woman fighter pilot to do so.

Squadron Leader Avani Chaturvedi – The First Woman to Fly the MiG-21 Bison Solo

Avani Chaturvedi, born on October 27, 1993, hails from Rewa, Madhya Pradesh. She pursued a B.Tech degree from Banasthali University, Rajasthan, where she joined the Flying Club, inspiring her to take the Indian Air Force exam.

Her biggest milestone came when she became the first Indian woman to fly the MiG-21 Bison solo, a significant achievement given that the MiG-21 is one of the fastest fighter jets in the world.

Avani’s brother serves in the Indian Army, and she credits him as one of her biggest inspirations. She completed her training at the Hyderabad Air Force Academy and is currently flying the Su-30 MKI fighter jets in India’s western sector.

Flight Lieutenant Bhawana Kanth – The First Woman Fighter Pilot in Republic Day Parade

Bhawana Kanth, originally from Begusarai, Bihar, became the first woman fighter pilot to be part of the Indian Air Force contingent at the Republic Day parade.

She joined the fighter squadron in November 2017 and went on to become the first woman to fly a MiG-21 Bison solo in March 2018. She is currently posted at a fighter base in the western sector.

Women’s Rising Role in Indian Defense

The induction of women in combat roles marks a major milestone in India’s defense forces. The achievements of Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth, and Mohana Singh are not just personal victories but significant steps toward gender equality in the armed forces.

From fighter pilots to commanding warships, women in defense continue to break stereotypes and lead the way for future generations. Their journey is a testament to the progressive steps taken toward women’s empowerment in India.