The movie 'Border' inspired her, took different job to support family. Years later, she made history in Indian Army. Meet Major Prajakta Desai

The 1997 film Border made a little girl dream of joining the army. Today, she is become the first female officer in the Indian Army to become an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle observer pilot. Major Prajakta Desai recently shared her incredible journey with The Humans Of Bombay. She said that growing up, she always had a penchant for adventures. When she was 8, she was inspired to become a soldier after she watched the Sunny Deol-starrer Border.

A Dream Delayed, Not Defeated

After finishing her college education and completing three years with the National Cadet Corps (NCC), Prajakta took the Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination in 2009. She successfully cleared the written test and advanced through the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview and medical evaluation.

Despite performing well, the final merit list placed her at rank 21, while only 10 training positions were available that year. Missing selection by such a narrow margin was a painful setback. Rather than allowing disappointment to end her aspirations, she accepted a job to help support herself and her family while continuing to believe that another opportunity would come.


Her perseverance paid off when the number of vacancies at the Officers Training Academy (OTA) in Chennai was increased to around 24–25 seats. The revised intake meant she secured admission, and in 2010 she finally began her military training.

Rigorous Training at the Officers Training Academy

According to Major Desai, every trainee at OTA is treated simply as a cadet, regardless of gender. She explained that the academy demands exceptional mental resilience as much as physical endurance. The year-long course tested every aspect of her character, but giving up was never an option.

After successfully completing the demanding program in 2011, she graduated from the academy and received her commission as a Lieutenant in the Indian Army. Her first assignment was with an Army Air Defence unit.

Building a Distinguished Military Career

Following a year with the Army Air Defence branch, she was transferred to the Army Aviation Corps, where she served for the next nine years. She emphasized that respect within a military unit is earned through professionalism, competence, and leading by example.

To build trust with her fellow soldiers, she actively participated in sports, shared meals, spent time interacting with the troops, and mastered the operation of field anti-aircraft guns and radar systems. These experiences strengthened both her leadership skills and her bond with those she served alongside.

Gaining Diverse Skills Across India

Over a decade in uniform, Major Desai served in numerous regions across the country, taking on varied responsibilities and continuously expanding her expertise. Her military career included specialized training in mountaineering, skydiving, and hot-air ballooning. She also developed flying skills through microlight aircraft and glider training, adding to her broad aviation experience.

Personal Happiness and a Historic Achievement

Amid her demanding professional life, Major Desai celebrated a personal milestone by marrying her longtime partner in 2014.

Five years later, in 2019, she reached another landmark achievement. She became the first woman officer in the Indian Army to qualify as an Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) Observer Pilot, creating history and opening new possibilities for women serving in military aviation. Her journey stands as an inspiring example of how determination, patience, and unwavering commitment can transform childhood dreams into groundbreaking accomplishments.

She retired in 2021. She currently works as a motivational speaker.