SLt Anamika B Rajeev Becomes Indian Navy’s First Woman Naval Helicopter Pilot

On June 7, 2024, the 102nd Helicopter Conversion Course (HCC) and the 4th Basic Helicopter Conversion Course (BHCC) graduated 21 officers, marking critical milestones in the Indian Navy’s aviation history.

The renowned “Golden Wings” were awarded to 21 personnel, including three from the 03 BHCC, during the ceremony presided over by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-chief, Eastern Naval Command.

Three 04 Basic Conversion Course (BCC)officers completed stage (I) training successfully.

Among the notable graduates was Sub Lieutenant Anamika B. Rajeev, who became the first woman to pilot a naval helicopter in the Indian Navy.

Her achievement demonstrates the Indian Navy’s dedication to promoting gender equality and expanding career options for women in the military.

Lt. Jamyang Tsewang became the first Commissioned Naval Officer from the Union Territory of Ladakh to qualify as a helicopter pilot.

The Passing Out Parade, the end of 22 weeks of hard training at Indian Naval Air Squadron 561, featured outstanding performances.

Lt Gurkirat Rajput won the FOCinC, Eastern Naval Command Rolling Trophy for ranking first in the Order of Merit in Flying, while Lt Nitin Sharan Chaturvedi received the Sub Lieutenant Kunte Memorial Book Prize for ranking first in the Order of Merit in Ground Subjects.

Lt Deepak Gupta received the Governor of Kerala Rolling Trophy for First in Overall Order of Merit.

The Helicopter Training School at INS Rajali was founded over 50 years ago and has a long history.

It has trained 849 pilots for friendly foreign countries, the Indian Coast Guard, and the Indian Navy.

The school’s tradition of excellence continues under the leadership of Commodore Kapil Mehta and Commander Archesh.

The graduation of these newly qualified pilots is a key milestone for the Indian Navy as it prepares to carry out various missions, such as reconnaissance, surveillance, search and rescue, and anti-piracy operations.

Meanwhile, officers from the 04 BHCC will attend Stage II training at the Helicopter Training School.

The ceremony recognizes these commanders’ accomplishments and demonstrates the Indian Navy’s unwavering commitment to excellence and inclusion within its ranks.

As these pilots ascend to the sky, they bring the pride and dignity of representing their country.

Reference: PIB, ANI