The desert sands of Jaisalmer just witnessed a moment that will be etched in India’s military history forever. President Droupadi Murmu, the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, took to the skies in the indigenous Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) ‘Prachand.’ But this wasn't just a routine flight; it was a powerful statement of India’s growing self-reliance and the rising power of women in the military.A Flight to Remember During the massive 'Vayu Shakti 2026' exercise, President Murmu donned the flight suit and boarded the Prachand a helicopter specifically designed for high-altitude warfare. As she soared over the Rajasthan desert, she wasn't just a spectator; she was right there in the cockpit, experiencing the sheer agility and power of Indian engineering firsthand.History Made by the Co-Pilot The real highlight that has everyone talking is the person sitting beside the President. For the first time in history, a woman pilot served as the co-pilot for the President of India during a combat helicopter sortie. This moment perfectly encapsulated the theme of "Nari Shakti" (Women Power) that the government has been championing. Seeing the President and a young woman officer maneuvering one of the world’s most advanced combat choppers sent a clear message: there is no limit to what Indian women can achieve.Why the ‘Prachand’ Matters If you’re wondering why this specific helicopter was chosen, it’s because the Prachand is a "Made in India" marvel. It’s the only attack helicopter in the world that can land and take off at altitudes of 5,000 meters (about 16,400 feet) with a significant load of weapons. By flying in it, President Murmu gave a massive nod of approval to the scientists and engineers at HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) who built it.The ‘Vayu Shakti’ Spectacle The flight took place against the backdrop of the Vayu Shakti exercise, where the Indian Air Force displays its full destructive and defensive capabilities. From fighter jets dropping precision bombs to paratroopers descending into the dunes, the exercise was a display of "Aatmanirbhar Bharat" (Self-Reliant India).President Murmu’s presence in the sky, alongside a trailblazing woman pilot, serves as an inspiration for millions of young girls across the country. It’s a reminder that today’s India is bold, indigenous, and inclusive.
Around the web
