Captain Hansja Sharma of the Indian Army has made Jammu and Kashmir proud by achieving historic milestone in her extraordinary military career. She has been selected to lead the elite 251 Army Aviation Squadron during the Republic Day Parade, a rare honour that underlines her excellence, leadership, and trailblazing role in Indian Army Aviation. Her journey from the classrooms of Jammu to the cockpit of the deadly Rudra armed helicopter stands as a powerful story of resilience, discipline, and unbreakable self-belief.
A Historic First: India’s Woman Rudra Helicopter Pilot
Born on March 9, 1998, in Jammu, Captain Hansja Sharma etched her name in history as the first woman pilot in the Indian Army qualified to fly the Rudra armed helicopter. The Rudra, an advanced weaponized version of the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH), is among the most formidable aerial platforms in the Indian military arsenal. Flying it requires exceptional skill, mental toughness, and unwavering focus—qualities that Captain Sharma embodies.
At just 27 years of age, she has already broken multiple barriers in a field long dominated by men, proving that determination and competence know no gender.
Early Life and Education in Jammu
Captain Hansja Sharma completed her schooling at St. Xavier’s Convent, Barnai, Jammu, where her disciplined mindset began to take shape. Even as a student, she lived by a powerful mantra written on her wall: “Be brutal to yourself.” That phrase later became the foundation of her relentless pursuit of excellence.
She went on to pursue her graduation from Parade College, Jammu, and later joined the Department of Zoology at the University of Jammu. However, her destiny lay beyond textbooks and laboratories. Drawn by a deep sense of patriotism and courage, she chose to serve the nation by joining the Indian Army.
Topping CAATS: A Silver Trophy Moment
Captain Sharma’s true breakthrough came at the Combat Army Aviation Training School (CAATS), Nashik, one of the most demanding aviation training institutions in the country. There, she not only completed her training but topped her course, earning the prestigious Silver Cheetah Trophy for being the best combat aviator.
She became the first woman officer to receive this honour, further cementing her place in Indian military history. Her performance at CAATS reflected her sharp focus, technical mastery, and fearless approach—qualities essential for combat aviation.
Leading the 251 Army Aviation Squadron
In another proud moment, Captain Hansja Sharma has been chosen to lead the 251 Army Aviation Squadron, showcasing her leadership skills at a national level. During the Army Day Parade on January 15, 2026, in Rajasthan, she demonstrated her expertise with the HELINA missile system, an advanced helicopter-launched anti-tank guided missile that represents India’s growing defence self-reliance.
Her selection to lead the squadron at the Republic Day Parade on Kartavya Path is not just a personal achievement—it is a powerful symbol of the Indian Army’s evolving, inclusive ethos.
A Mother’s Pride and Sacrifice
Speaking about her daughter’s journey, Captain Sharma’s mother, Rashmi Sharma (Journalist from Jammu), shared deeply emotional insights. A single mother and a journalist by profession, Rashmi Sharma described Hansja as disciplined, focused, and committed even during her time at home.
“She lives like an officer even on leave,” she said, highlighting her daughter’s strict routine, dedication to fitness, and disciplined lifestyle. Hansja even gave up her favourite chat papdi after joining the Indian Army, choosing fitness and readiness over indulgence.
Rashmi Sharma also revealed her daughter’s creative side—her love for reading and her talent for mimicry, including famous characters like Nana Patekar and Angoori Bhabhi.
Overcoming Rejection and Medical Challenges
Captain Hansja Sharma’s journey was not free of setbacks. At one stage, she received a Temporary Rejection (TR) from the Indian Army due to medical reasons. Instead of giving up, she showed extraordinary courage. Within just 15 days, she underwent a three-hour-long nose surgery, recovered, and returned stronger—eventually earning her place in the coveted olive green uniform.
Her mother described her approach as similar to Arjuna’s focus on the fish’s eye, unwavering and precise. Without any external coaching, Hansja relied solely on self-discipline and determination to overcome every hurdle.
A Spark That Caught the Army Chief’s Eye
One of the most defining moments of her career came when she impressed Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi with her command over the HELINA missile system. That spark of confidence and competence left a lasting impression, reinforcing her reputation as an exceptional combat aviator.
A photograph with Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh later became a moment of surprise and joy for her—shared lovingly by her mother, who remains overwhelmed by the respect and admiration her daughter has earned nationwide.
“Garv Hai Mujhe, Main Naari Hoon”
Captain Hansja Sharma’s journey is also deeply rooted in her belief in women’s strength. Her words, recalled by her mother, reflect her spirit:
“Garv hai mujhe main naari hoon… main kisi se kam nahi.”
These lines capture her essence—fearless, confident, and determined to rise above every limitation. She does not see herself as different from any other soldier; she stands shoulder to shoulder with those who have made the supreme sacrifice for the nation.
Inspiring a New Generation of Women Officers
Captain Hansja Sharma’s achievements highlight the growing role of women in frontline combat aviation within the Indian Army. Her success sends a powerful message to young aspirants across India, especially women who dream of serving the nation in high-skill, high-risk military roles.
As she leads her squadron this Republic Day, she represents a new chapter in Indian military history—one defined by merit, inclusivity, and excellence.
A Symbol of New India’s Armed Forces
From Jammu to the skies of Kartavya Path, Captain Hansja Sharma’s journey is a story of grit, sacrifice, and national pride. She stands as a shining example of what unwavering self-belief and discipline can achieve.
As the tricolour flies high and helicopters roar overhead on Republic Day, Captain Hansja Sharma will not just be leading a squadron—she will be leading a generation, inspiring countless young Indians to dream bigger, aim higher, and serve the nation with courage and honour.
