In a hugely progressive step by the Indian Ministry of Defence, women have been approved to serve as fighter pilots in the Indian Air Force (IAF).
This is the first time Indian women will be permitted to assume combat roles in the country’s armed forces.
Currently, female pilots serve in the transport sector and as helicopter operators. The first women fighter pilots will be selected from current trainees at the Air Force Academy, The Indian Express reports.
Women pilots like Squadron Leader Veena Saharan, the first woman pilot to land heavy lift transport aircraft IL-76,
serve in the transport stream of the IAF.
Photo Credit: salute.co.in
In the past, various reasons were cited for keeping women out of combat, including that they are not physically suited and that, if captured, they might face sexual abuse or torture, according to the Times of India. In a statement released on Saturday, however, the Ministry of Defence stated that the new direction was more in keeping with the “aspirations of Indian women” and in step with the armed forces of developed nations.
The ministry further praised the service of women in the IAF and said their induction as fighter pilots would provide equal opportunity to prove themselves in combat roles as well. Even as women across the country fight for basic safety and equality, many people see this move by the central government as a powerful statement in support of equal rights.
Article Sources: Times of India, Indian Express
Main Image Photo Credit: Firstpost.co.in
Dilshad Burman
Author
Dilshad Burman is an award winning TV host and Canadian media personality. Born in Mumbai, India, she was surrounded by its creative energy and grew up with a passion for music, film and television. While completing her Bachelor of Arts in English literature from The University of Mumbai, she i...
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