Obama in India: Wing Commander Puja Thakur first woman to lead a guard of honour

NEW DELHI: US President Barack Obama got a first glimpse of Nari Shakti (woman power) that Narendra Modi wants to showcase as the Republic Day theme, when Wing Commander Puja Thakur led the triservices ceremonial guard of honour at the Rashtrapati Bhavan on Sunday.

Posted at Disha, Indian Air Force’s (IAF) division engaged in developing publicity material to encourage youngsters to join the force, Thakur was earlier involved in developing a mobile game application called Guardians of the Sky. The app, released last year, featured a Sukhoi-30, the Mi-17 helicopter and air force transport aircraft in combat scenarios. This too was the first of its kind for any air force in the world.

By leading the tri-services and inviting President Obama to inspect the guard of honour, the 36-year-old Thakur became a symbol for women, motivating them to join the force. A certified para-jumper and an adventure sports lover, Thakur has been with the IAF since 2001 and posted as an administration officer. She was chosen to lead the guard of honour for President Obama from among more than 100 women officers. Her clear delivery of the command – Antar Sena Samman Guard, Rashtriya Shastra Salami Salute — was also one of the reasons she was chosen.

After the historic moment, Thakur told ET that it was a moment of great pride: for her and the IAF, to lead the ceremonial welcome for one of the most powerful men in the world. “I hope it will be an inspiration for women to see lady officers commanding contingents of men,” she said.

She made light of the long hours of training, saying, “We are always ready for parades and ceremonies.”