Wing Commander Vyomika Singh is a distinguished helicopter pilot in the Indian Air Force (IAF), widely recognized for co-leading the national media briefing on Operation Sindoor—India's precision strike in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Her journey from engineering aspirant to respected IAF officer exemplifies both service and trailblazing leadership.
Quick Facts
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Full Name | Vyomika Singh |
Rank | Wing Commander, Indian Air Force |
Branch | Flying (Helicopter) |
Commissioned | December 18, 2004 (21st Short Service Commission - Women) |
Permanent Commission | Granted on December 18, 2019 |
Flying Hours | Over 2,500 hours (Chetak and Cheetah helicopters) |
Notable Roles | Co-leads OP Sindoor briefing; high-altitude rescue missions; tri-service mountaineering expedition |
Early Life & Education
- Began her aviation ambition in school, influenced by her name—Vyomika, meaning "daughter of the sky". Joined the National Cadet Corps (NCC) early on.
- Holds a Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Engineering from Delhi College of Engineering.
- Joined the IAF's Flying Pilot course via Short Service Commission (SSC) through UPSC.
Military Career & Achievements
Commissioning & Permanent Rank
- Commissioned on December 18, 2004 through SSC (Women Pilot Course).
- Promoted to Wing Commander on December 18, 2017; awarded a Permanent Commission in 2019, marking a significant milestone for women officers.
Operational Excellence
- Logged over 2,500 flying hours on Chetak and Cheetah helicopters, flying in challenging terrains such as J&K and Northeast India.
- Led a critical high-altitude rescue mission in Arunachal Pradesh (Nov 2020), demonstrating precise aerial command under extreme conditions.
- Participated in an all-women tri-services expedition to Mt. Manirang (21,650 ft) in 2021, acknowledged by senior defense officials.
Operation Sindoor
- On May 7, 2025, co-led the joint press briefing on Operation Sindoor, India's coordinated air strikes post-Pahalgam terror attack, becoming an emblem of transparency and valor.
- Her role in this historic event positioned her among the most visible women leaders in India’s defense narrative.
Media Recognition & Role Model
- Featured on a Kaun Banega Crorepati (KBC) Independence Day special episode alongside Smt. Sofiya Qureshi and Lt Cdr Prerna Deosthalee, standing proudly as symbols of women in uniform.
- Praised by the Uttar Pradesh Governor for her pivotal role in Operation Sindoor and her embodiment of "Nari Shakti."
- The PIB issued alerts regarding fake social media accounts impersonating her—highlighting the public visibility and influence of her profile.
Personal Life & Family
- Hails from Lucknow, where her childhood dream of flying first blossomed.
- Married to a fellow IAF pilot, with whom details such as their children remain private.
- Continues to inspire youth, especially girls, advocating that women belong in leadership and combat roles.
Remuneration (Estimated)
Based on public information for an IAF Wing Commander (Pay Level 12A):
- Basic Pay: ₹1,21,200 – ₹2,12,400 per month
- Additional allowances:
- Military Service Pay (MSP): ₹15,500
- Flying allowance: ₹25,000
- Dearness allowance (DA) + other entitlements such as housing, medical, and pensions
- Estimated total monthly compensation: ₹1.7 – ₹2.4 lakh
Summary
Wing Commander Vyomika Singh stands as a powerful symbol of dedication, resilience, and gender equality within India's military. Her impact spans from high-risk rescue missions and mountaineering feats to commanding respect at national briefings during Operation Sindoor. A true role model, she continues to inspire not just aspiring pilots but women everywhere to soar beyond boundaries.
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