Flight Lieutenant Bhawana Kanth, the first amongst three other fighter pilots of the IAF will be a part of the Republic Day Parade to be held on January 26th. The other two women fighter pilots are – Mohana Singh and Avani Chaturvedi. It is learnt that Bhawana Kanth would be on the tableau which highlights IAF’s light combat aircraft, helicopter and Sukhoi-30 fighter jet. It is for the first time in the history of India that a women IAF pilot is debuting for the parade on the Rajpath.
Speaking to a media house, the IAF Flight Lieutenant Bhawana Kanth expressed her happiness over being selected for the parade. “Since my childhood, I have been watching Republic Day parade on television and it’s a matter of pride that now I’m participating in it. I would love to fly other fighter jets, including Rafale and Sukhoi,” Bhawana Kanth said.
On the occasion, Dassault Rafale which is the latest MRCA (Multi-Role Combat Aircraft) acquired by the Indian Air Force will also be witnessed by the Indian public, as it will be a part of the fly-past. As per IAF Spokesperson, 15 fighter jets, 5 transport and a vintage aircraft are expected to take part in the flypast amongst 42 aircrafts in toto.
Marking the dawn of empowered women-led #NewIndia
Flt Lt Bhawana Kanth is set to become the first woman fighter pilot to take part in the Republic Day parade.
Indeed a proud moment for the entire country!@IAF_MCC pic.twitter.com/NqY6bYDtWL
— Dr Harsh Vardhan (@drharshvardhan) January 18, 2021