Flight Lieutenant Akshita Dhankar represents a new generation of women officers in the Indian Air Force (IAF)—young, professionally skilled, and deeply rooted in India’s tradition of service. On January 26, 2026, she will step into one of the most solemn ceremonial moments of national life when she assists the President of India in unfurling the Tricolour at Kartavya Path during the 77th Republic Day celebrations.
The honour places her at the heart of an event that symbolises India’s unity, sovereignty, and the disciplined dedication of its armed forces.
Roots in Service and an Early Inspiration
Flight Lieutenant Dhankar hails from Kasni village in Haryana, a region known for its strong association with the armed forces and a long-standing culture of national service. Growing up in the Jat heartland, she was influenced early by values of discipline, responsibility, and pride in the uniform.
A defining inspiration came from her father, who had once participated in a Republic Day parade. Witnessing his experience left a deep impression on her young mind and planted the seed of a dream—to one day stand on Kartavya Path herself. Over the years, that childhood fascination matured into a firm resolve to pursue a career in the armed forces.
Leadership Shaped Through NCC
Her path toward the Air Force took shape during her college years at Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Khalsa College, University of Delhi. It was here that she joined the National Cadet Corps (NCC), an organisation that has long served as a training ground for future military leaders.
Dhankar rose to the prestigious rank of Cadet Sergeant Major (CSM), a role that demanded organisational skill, leadership under pressure, and personal discipline. Her performance earned recognition within her NCC unit, which later acknowledged her journey as an example for future cadets. The rigorous and structured environment of the NCC played a crucial role in preparing her mentally and physically for life as an officer.
Commissioning into the Indian Air Force
Driven by a clear sense of purpose, Dhankar appeared for the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT), one of the most competitive entry routes into the Indian Air Force. She successfully cleared the examination and was recommended by the 2 Air Force Selection Board (AFSB), Mysore, for the Administration branch under the M AFCAT (W) 551 entry.
She was commissioned as a Flying Officer on June 17, 2023, as part of the 211 Short Service Commission (Women) Ground Duty Course. She progressed to the rank of Flight Lieutenant in a relatively short span—reflecting both professional competence and the Air Force’s merit-based promotion system.
As an officer in the Administration branch, she is entrusted with responsibilities that are vital to the Air Force’s operational efficiency, including personnel management, logistics coordination, and organisational planning.
Republic Day 2026: A Rare Honour
Flight Lieutenant Dhankar remained largely away from public attention until her selection for the Republic Day Parade 2026. On January 26, she will assist the President of India in unfurling the national flag at Kartavya Path—an honour reserved for officers who exemplify professionalism, discipline, and service.
The 77th Republic Day Parade will also reflect the evolving identity of the Indian Air Force, featuring historic milestones such as the participation of women Agniveers in the Air Force band contingent and prominent operational displays, including the ‘Sindoor’ fighter formation commemorating Operation Sindoor.
Speaking about the preparations, Dhankar has described the training as demanding and intense, involving months of early mornings and long hours. Yet, she has emphasised that the opportunity to represent the Air Force at such a national platform makes every hardship worthwhile.
Inspiring Beyond the Ceremony
Back in Kasni village, her selection has been a moment of quiet pride. A local community event—where young girls sang in her honour—captured the emotional significance of her achievement. The widely shared visuals reflected how a journey rooted in rural India has reached the centre stage of national ceremony.
For Dhankar, the moment carries meaning beyond personal achievement. She hopes her journey encourages young Indians, especially women, to view the armed forces as an honourable and attainable career path.
A Symbol of Change in the Indian Air Force
Women today constitute a growing segment of the Indian Air Force, accounting for approximately 13 percent of its personnel as of 2026. While challenges remain, the increasing visibility of women officers at national events signals steady progress toward inclusivity and parity.
Flight Lieutenant Akshita Dhankar’s journey is not one of sudden acclaim, but of consistent commitment—shaped by discipline, perseverance, and faith in service. From NCC drills to selection boards and finally to Kartavya Path, her story reflects how dedication can transform a childhood dream into a moment of national pride.
As India’s armed forces continue to modernise, her presence at the Republic Day Parade stands as a quiet yet powerful reminder of a future that is capable, inclusive, and firmly anchored in service to the nation.
