Meet The Officers Representing India At World Defence Show

Three women officers are making big waves for India at the ongoing World Defence Show in Saudi Arabia's capital, Riyadh. Squadron leader Bhawana Kanth, Colonel Ponung Doming, and Lt Commander Annu Prakash are the three women among the Indian squad participating in the five-day event. "The participation of these three exceptional women officers at the World Defence Show served as a testament to the growing role of Indian women in the defence landscape," the defence ministry said.

The World Defence Show sees a host of military personnel from across the world showcasing their talents and latest advancements. It is a vital opportunity for world defence teams to collaborate on strategising the future of defence through technology.   

Meet Three Women Officers In Indian Team

Women Officers from #IndianArmedForces attend the World Defence Show, Riyadh #WDS2024.
The delgation of Col Ponung Doming #IndianArmy, Lt Cdr Annu Prakash #IndianNavy & Sqn Ldr Bhawana Kanth #IndianAirForce were special invitees to the "International Women in Defence -… pic.twitter.com/xstSfWEnN2

— HQ IDS (@HQ_IDS_India) February 7, 2024

Squadron Leader Bhawana Kanth of the Indian Air Force took charge of the stage on February 7 as part of a panel on the inclusivity of women in defence. The discussion was organised by Saudi Ambassador to the US Princess Reema bint Bandar Al-Saud. Kanth shared the story of breaking barriers and piercing through clouds as a fighter pilot. 

Kanth is the first woman fighter pilot to take part in the Republic Day Parade in 2021. Speaking about Kanth's story, the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff shared a tweet lauding her speech. The X (Twitter) post read, "Her insights on leadership, resilience and the evolving role of women in modern warfare resonated with the diverse audience, who were impressed to know about her journey."

Colonel Ponung Doming is another trailblazing leader who is the first woman officer to command the world's highest border task force located above 15,000 feet in the Northern sector. She also has multiple other firsts to her credit in over 20 years of service. She has been at the forefront of many challenging assignments being an engineering officer, the defence ministry said.

Lieutenant Commander Annu Prakash of the Indian Navy spoke at the World Defence Show and underscored the crucial role women play in safeguarding India's vast coastline and ensuring regional stability. Prakash has earlier spoken on several other panels about her enthusiastic advocacy of women's participation in the country's protection.