Meet Sub-Lt Anamika Rajeev, Indian Navy's First Woman Helicopter Pilot

Sub-Lieutenant Anamika B Rajeev has marked a significant moment in history as she became the first woman helicopter pilot in the prestigious Indian Navy. She was a part of the Helicopter Conversion Course in the naval air station INS Rajali at Arakkonam in Ranipet district, Tamil Nadu On June 7, during a passing out parade, 21 officers were awarded the prestigious ‘Golden Wings’ by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command. 

The ceremony also marked the completion of Stage I training of the 4th Basic Helicopter Conversion Course in which three officers completed their Stage – (I) training. Another pioneering officer, Lieutenant Jamyang Tsewang from Ladakh, became the first commissioned naval officer from the Union Territory of Ladakh, according to a press release.

Who Is Sub-Lieutenant Anamika Rajeev

Sub-Lieutenant Anamika B Rajeev made history as the first woman helicopter pilot in the Indian Navy. A Navy spokesperson told the media, "Highlighting Indian Navy's commitment to gender inclusivity and expanding career opportunities for women, Sub-Lieutenant Anamika B Rajeev created history by graduating as the first woman naval helicopter pilot.”

Naval Pilots’ passing out parade at INS Rajali

SLt Anamika B Rajeev graduated as the ‘First Woman Naval helicopter pilot’

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Sub-Lieutenant Rajeev and 21 other officers finished a rigorous 22-week training program at Indian Naval Air Squadron 561 at INS Rajali. She is now qualified to fly a variety of helicopters, such as the MH-60R Seahawk, Sea Kings, Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) Dhruvs, and Chetaks.

INS Rajali helicopter training school boasts a long five-decade history and has produced 849 pilots from the Indian Navy, the Indian Coast Guard, and allied countries. This squadron is renowned for its strict standards and thorough training for army pilots. It also serves as the alma mater for all helicopter pilots in the Indian Navy.

Sub-Lieutenant Rajeev follows in the footsteps of Indian Air Force Flying Officer Avani Chaturvedi, who made history as India's first female pilot of a fighter aircraft. Chaturvedi flew a MiG-21 Bison solo and her achievement as a pioneer made significant strides towards achieving gender equality in the army.