In a first, a woman officer from the Indian Air Force, Wing Commander Pooja Thakur, led the ceremonial guard of honour to visiting U.S. President Barack Obama at Rashtrapati Bhavan here on Sunday.
She was seen and heard giving commands, which were followed by the national anthems of the U.S. and India. This was followed by the 21-gun salute. She then escorted the U.S. President for inspection of the tri-service guard of honour.
Ms. Thakur, who hails from Rajasthan and has served in the IAF for over 13 years, is an administrative officer posted at its publicity cell, DISHA, at the Delhi Air Headquarters in New Delhi. She is also a para jumper.
She told reporters after the ceremony that she felt proud. “It is a proud moment. I hope it inspires more women to join the forces,” she added.
She said there was no discrimination between women and men in the Air Force.
The officer told NDTV that she came to know about her role in leading the guard of honour only a few days ago.
“For the past few days, we’ve been practising for it. However, we start with our drill movements and ceremonials, right from the first day of our training... And we are always prepared,” Thakur said.
Her leading the ceremonial guard of honour comes as ‘nari shakti’ (woman power) is the theme for Republic Day parade this year where Mr. Obama is the chief guest. This Republic Day will also be the first time when women contingents of the Army, Air Force and Navy will march down Rajpath.
Flight Lieutenant Smita Singh, a woman officer, was the supernumerary officer. IANS
