From School Lesson to History: Jammu’s Captain Hansja Becomes India’s First Rudra Armed Helicopter Pilot

From the classrooms of Jammu to the frontlines of duty in New Delhi, Captain Hansja’s journey is a story of courage, perseverance, and inspiration. After becoming the first woman to win the Silver Cheetah Trophy for Best Combat Aviator, she has now made history as India’s first female Rudra armed helicopter pilot. On Republic Day 2026, she will lead the 251 Army Aviation Squadron during the parade—a milestone for women in the Indian Army.

The School Lesson That Shaped Her Destiny
Born on March 9, 1998, in Jammu, Captain Hansja is the daughter of journalist Rushmi Sharma. She completed her schooling at St. Xavier’s Convent Higher Secondary School, Jammu, where one line written on the school wall—“Be brutal to yourself”—became her daily mantra. This simple yet powerful lesson inspired her to constantly push her limits and pursue her dreams with determination.

Breaking Barriers in Military Aviation
After completing her Bachelor’s degree from Government College for Women (GCW), Jammu, Hansja joined the Indian Army and underwent rigorous training at the Combat Army Aviation Training School (CAATS) in Nasik. She excelled in high-speed combat mission training and emerged at the top of her course, earning the Silver Cheetah Trophy as the first woman to receive this honor for Best Combat Aviator.

Choosing the Army Aviation Corps, she became part of a generation of women taking on combat roles. Under the supervision of the Army Training Command (ARTRAC), she underwent intensive training to prepare for the challenges of daily military aviation operations.

Overcoming Obstacles to Serve the Nation
Captain Hansja’s journey was not without hurdles. During her initial selection, a medical test temporarily disqualified her. Undeterred, she underwent a 3-hour nasal surgery and returned stronger, finally joining the Indian Army to fulfill her lifelong dream.

A Historic Milestone in Indian Aviation
Captain Hansja is now India’s first female pilot of the Rudra armed helicopter, a domestically manufactured combat helicopter equipped with advanced weaponry. The Rudra, named after the fierce form of Lord Shiva, represents India’s cutting-edge military aviation capability. Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi personally entrusted her with this historic responsibility.

Captain Hansja’s achievement symbolizes the changing face of women’s empowerment in India and stands as a powerful example of how determination, courage, and perseverance can break barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields.