As many as 18 Indian Navy officers, including one woman, graduated as pilots from the Helicopter Training School at INS Rajali in Arakkonam on Monday. Sub-Lieutenant Siddhi Hemant Dubey became the second woman helicopter pilot of the Indian Navy.
According to a press release, the graduating officers were presented the coveted ‘Golden Wings’, an award that marks them as helicopter pilots. The awards were given by Vice-Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command. They took part in a passing out parade, marking the successful completion of their 22-week intensive flying and ground training at the school in the Indian Naval Air Squadron-561.
Vice-Admiral Pendharkar said a naval pilot’s skill was tested at sea and in the sky. Handling this required a deep commitment, he added. He told the graduating pilots that they should wear the ‘Golden Wings’, not as decoration but as a proof of discipline, focus, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. “The wings represent the Navy’s faith in its pilots, and a sign that they are now a part of a rich naval legacy,” Vice-Admiral Pendharkar said.
Published - June 10, 2025 12:13 am IST
