- Air Vice Marshal Shakti Sharma is the first woman from the IAF non-medical branch to reach this rank
- She has taken charge as Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Education) at Air Headquarters
- Sharma has contributed to IAF education and established Chairs of Excellence at IIT Kanpur and Pune
Air Vice Marshal Shakti Sharma has made history by becoming the first woman officer from the non-medical branch of the Indian Armed Forces to reach the rank of Air Vice Marshal. She has now taken charge as the Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Education) at Air Headquarters.
Sharma, who was commissioned into the branch on June 18, 1994 has spent a major part of her career in the Education Branch of the Indian Air Force.
Shakti Sharma's Journey In Air Force Education
Over the years, Sharma has served at different training institutions, air stations, Command Headquarters and Air Headquarters. Her work has focused on strengthening education and creating better connections between the armed forces and academic institutions.
One of her key contributions was helping establish IAF Chairs of Excellence at IIT Kanpur and Pune University.
In her new role as Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Education), Sharma will be responsible for guiding education and training-related activities in the Indian Air Force.
First Woman To Become Principal Of A Sainik School
Before achieving the rank of Air Vice Marshal, Sharma had already created history in the field of school education. She became the first woman officer from the three services of the Indian Armed Forces to lead a Sainik School.
She served as the Principal of Sainik School Kapurthala, a CBSE-affiliated residential school that focuses on academics, discipline, leadership and preparing students for future careers in the armed forces.
During her tenure, Sharma worked closely with students and motivated them to explore opportunities in defence services.
Why Her Appointment Is Important
Shakti Sharma's appointment is a significant achievement for women officers in the Indian Armed Forces. Her experience in military education, training and academic partnerships makes her well suited for this leadership role.
With more than three decades of service, Air Vice Marshal Shakti Sharma's journey marks an important chapter in the history of the Indian Air Force.