Wing Commander Deepika Misra Becomes First Woman IAF Officer to Receive Gallantry Award
Wing Commander Deepika Misra Becomes First Woman IAF Officer to Receive Gallantry Award
Wing Commander Deepika Misra made history by becoming the first woman officer of the Indian Air Force (IAF) to be awarded a gallantry award. Misra received the Yudh Seva Medal for her role in the Indian Air Force's airstrikes on terror camps in Balakot, Pakistan, in February 2019.
Who is Wing Commander Deepika Misra?
Wing Commander Deepika Misra is a helicopter pilot in the IAF. She hails from Uttarakhand and joined the Air Force in 2007. In her career spanning over a decade, she has flown several types of helicopters and has been a part of various operations, including humanitarian aid and disaster relief missions.
What is the Yudh Seva Medal?
The Yudh Seva Medal is one of the highest military honors awarded in India. It is given for distinguished service in an operational context. The medal was first instituted in 1980 and is awarded during peacetime and war.
What Happened in Balakot?
On February 14, 2019, a suicide bomber attacked a convoy of Indian security forces in Pulwama, Jammu and Kashmir, killing 40 CRPF personnel. India blamed Pakistan for supporting the terrorist organization responsible for the attack, Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). Eleven days later, on February 25, the IAF launched airstrikes on a JeM camp in Balakot, Pakistan. The airstrikes were seen as a retaliation for the Pulwama attack.
Misra's Role in the Balakot Airstrikes
Wing Commander Deepika Misra was part of the team that executed the Balakot airstrikes. She was the captain of one of the helicopters that was used in the operation. The team had to fly at an altitude of over 9,000 feet and navigate through difficult terrain to reach the target. Misra's helicopter had to land at a makeshift helipad, and she had to coordinate with the ground forces to ensure a smooth operation.
Women in the Indian Armed Forces
The Indian Armed Forces have been opening up more roles for women in recent years. Women are now allowed to join the Army, Navy, and Air Force in various roles, including combat roles. The government has set a target of having women constitute 20% of the total strength of the Armed Forces by 2030.
Conclusion
Wing Commander Deepika Misra's achievement is a testament to the increasing role of women in the Indian Armed Forces. It is hoped that her success will inspire more women to join the military and serve their country. Misra's bravery and dedication to duty are an inspiration to us all.
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