Kargil Vijay Diwas: Celebrating Gunjan Saxena & Sreevidya Rajan, India’s First Female Combat Pilots

Kargil War hero IAF Sreevidya Rajan (L) and IAF Gunjan Saxena (R)

Illuminated Kargil War Memorial (Image: PTI)

The Kargil War of 1999 is etched in history not only for its fierce battles but also for the remarkable courage displayed by the Indian Armed Forces. Among the distinguished heroes of this conflict, Flight Lieutenants Gunjan Saxena and Sreevidya Rajan stand out as trailblazers, being the first female pilots to serve in a combat zone. Their groundbreaking roles during the war shattered gender barriers and paved the way for future generations of women in the military.

Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl

Flight Lieutenant Gunjan Saxena, known as the "Kargil Girl," made a profound impact during the 1999 Kargil War. Operating Cheetah helicopters in the perilous high-altitude conflict zones, she carried out critical reconnaissance missions amid relentless enemy fire. The extreme terrain and harsh weather posed significant challenges, yet Gunjan’s exceptional flying skills enabled her to navigate these conditions with precision.

Indian Air Force pilot Gunjan Saxena (L) with Janhvi Kapoor (Image: Instagram)

Her contributions extended beyond reconnaissance; she played a crucial role in evacuating wounded soldiers from the battlefield. Frequently entering active combat zones, Gunjan’s swift and courageous actions in airlifting injured personnel to safety were instrumental in saving lives and uplifting troop morale. She also ensured the delivery of essential supplies, including ammunition, food, and medical kits, to remote areas, supporting the ongoing operations.

A snapshot from the movie 'Gunjan Saxena: The Kargil Girl'

In recognition of her valor and service, Gunjan Saxena was awarded the Shaurya Chakra, one of India’s highest military honors for gallantry. Her pioneering spirit continues to inspire future generations of female aviators.

Sreevidya Rajan: A Pioneer in Combat Aviation

Indian Air Force Pilot Sreevidya Rajan (Image: Instagram/sreevidyarajan_)

Flight Lieutenant Sreevidya Rajan, like her colleague Gunjan Saxena, played a pivotal role in the Kargil War by undertaking numerous reconnaissance missions across the challenging Kargil terrain. Her precise observations and intelligence gathering were crucial for the strategic operations of the Indian Army, significantly contributing to the successful planning and execution of military actions. Facing adverse weather and treacherous conditions, Rajan demonstrated exceptional piloting skills and bravery.

She was actively involved in evacuating wounded soldiers, providing critical medical evacuations and ensuring prompt care under the most hazardous circumstances. Her missions, often conducted under enemy fire, highlighted her courage and commitment to saving lives.

As one of the first female pilots to serve in combat zones, Sreevidya Rajan’s contributions represent a significant milestone in the history of the Indian Air Force.

Indian soldiers make their down from a mountain peak at Gumri June 21, 1999. (Image: Reuters)

Together, the stories of Gunjan Saxena and Sreevidya Rajan not only celebrate individual heroism but also symbolize a broader movement towards gender equality in the armed forces. Their bravery, skill, and dedication during the Kargil War have left a lasting legacy, inspiring many women to pursue careers in military and aviation fields.