How did Two Punjab Women Become Flying Officers in the Air Force?
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Synopsis
In a remarkable achievement, two alumni from Mai Bhago AFPI in Mohali, Punjab, have been commissioned as Flying Officers in the Indian Air Force, showcasing the government's commitment to empowering young women. Their success story is set to inspire many others to pursue careers in defense services.
Key Takeaways
- Two women from Punjab have made history as Flying Officers in the Indian Air Force.
- This achievement encourages young women to pursue careers in defense.
- The Punjab government is actively supporting women through initiatives like the NDA Preparatory Wing.
- Charanpreet Kaur and Mehak Dahiya represent a shift towards greater gender equality in the armed forces.
- Such milestones contribute to breaking traditional barriers and stereotypes.
Chandigarh, Dec 13 (NationPress) Reinforcing the government's dedication to empowering young women, the Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute (AFPI) for Girls located in Punjab's Mohali has achieved yet another milestone. Two of its exceptional alumni, Charanpreet Kaur and Mehak Dahiya, have been officially commissioned as Flying Officers in the Indian Air Force.
The duo graduated from the Air Force Academy in Dundigal, Hyderabad, on Saturday, bringing immense pride to their alma mater. Their commissioning took place during a grand passing-out parade, which was honored by the presence of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan.
Flying Officer Charanpreet Kaur is the daughter of Harminder Singh Banwait, a driver from Kurali in Mohali, while Flying Officer Mehak Dahiya is the daughter of Anil Kumar Dahiya, a government teacher also from Mohali.
Flying Officer Charanpreet Kaur has been appointed to the Administrative Branch, whereas Flying Officer Mehak Dahiya has been assigned to the Accounts Branch of the Air Force.
The Punjab Minister for Employment Generation, Skill Development and Training, Aman Arora, congratulated the newly commissioned officers, emphasizing that their success will motivate more young women from Punjab to explore careers in the defence sector.
In addition, the Punjab government inaugurated a NDA Preparatory Wing for girls at the Mai Bhago AFPI in July 2023, with the third batch currently in training.
A new block named after Field Marshal SHFJ Manekshaw was inaugurated in November 2025.
The Director of Mai Bhago AFPI, Major Gen Jasbir Singh Sandhu, AVSM (retd), expressed his pride over the commissioning of these two alumni as Flying Officers, stating that this accomplishment will further energize the state government's efforts to encourage more girls to enter the armed forces. He wished the newly commissioned women officers a successful future in the Indian Air Force.
Point of View
The commissioning of Charanpreet Kaur and Mehak Dahiya as Flying Officers serves as a testament to the progressive initiatives being undertaken to empower women in India. Their achievements highlight the importance of inclusivity in the armed forces and reflect the broader societal change towards gender equality. This milestone not only enhances the representation of women in defense but also inspires future generations to break barriers and dream big.
NationPress
13/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the newly commissioned Flying Officers?
The newly commissioned Flying Officers are Charanpreet Kaur and Mehak Dahiya, alumni of Mai Bhago AFPI in Mohali, Punjab.
What branches have they been commissioned into?
Flying Officer Charanpreet Kaur has been commissioned into the Administrative Branch, while Flying Officer Mehak Dahiya is in the Accounts Branch of the Indian Air Force.
What is the significance of this achievement?
Their commissioning symbolizes the growing opportunities for women in the defense sector and aims to inspire more young women to pursue careers in the armed forces.
When did the commissioning take place?
The commissioning took place on December 13, during a passing-out parade at the Air Force Academy in Hyderabad.
What initiatives have been taken to support women in defense?
The Punjab government has established an NDA Preparatory Wing for Girls at Mai Bhago AFPI to encourage more women to join the armed forces.
