Women in India have continually demonstrated unwavering dedication and courage in the defence forces, proving their equal capabilities in safeguarding the nation. Adding to this legacy, Tanushka Singh, originally from Uttar Pradesh, recently made history by becoming the first woman pilot in the Indian Air Force (IAF) to be permanently assigned to fly the Jaguar fighter jet.
Tanushka, born in Lucknow, has lived in Mangaluru since 2007, completing her schooling and higher education there. In 2022, she graduated with a B.Tech degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering, after which she joined the IAF. Tanushka underwent rigorous training at the Air Force Academy in Dundigal, Tamil Nadu, followed by specialised training on the Hawk MK 132 aircraft.
Third generation of the family serving the country
From childhood dreams to soaring in the skies, Tanushka Singh’s journey is one of grit, and ambition. Her family, with two generations of distinguished service in the defence forces, played a pivotal role in inspiring her to join the Indian Air Force.
Tanushka Singh is the granddaughter of retired Captain Devendra Bahadur Singh and the eldest daughter of retired Lieutenant Colonel Ajay Pratap Singh—both holding distinguished records during their service.
The Jaguar is a formidable strike aircraft of the Indian Air Force, renowned for its precision attack capabilities. While other female pilots have previously flown the Jaguar jet, Tanushka’s appointment is historic; marking her as the first to receive a permanent assignment.
