In an inspiring story of perseverance and determination, Punjab Police Constable Gursimran Singh has been selected for the Flying Branch of the Indian Air Force (IAF), marking a remarkable transition from beat duty to the cockpit of a military aircraft.
The 23-year-old constable, currently posted in Mohali, secured All India Rank (AIR) 52 in the recently released Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT) merit list and has been selected to undergo pilot training at the Air Force Academy.
Gursimran had earlier cleared the highly competitive Services Selection Board (SSB) interview for an officer’s commission in the Indian Air Force in December 2025. His final selection for the Flying Branch represents the culmination of years of hard work and unwavering commitment to his dream of serving the nation in uniform.
Fourth Attempt Brings Success
The achievement becomes even more remarkable considering that this was Gursimran’s fourth attempt at clearing the SSB interview. Despite setbacks in his earlier attempts, he remained focused on his goal and continued preparing while serving in the Punjab Police.
A native of Ropar district, Punjab, Gursimran joined the Punjab Police as a constable in August 2022. Alongside his demanding professional responsibilities, he pursued his higher education through the Centre for Distance and Online Education, Panjab University, Chandigarh, where he completed his Bachelor of Arts degree.
Mentored by a Veteran Officer
Retired Major General Yash Mor, who mentored Gursimran during his SSB preparation, described the achievement as extraordinary.
According to Maj Gen Mor, Gursimran was part of his online mentoring programme, where he was encouraged to remain authentic and take pride in his journey as a police constable aspiring to become a military officer.
The retired officer praised his determination and resilience, noting that his transition from a police constable to an Indian Air Force pilot is a significant accomplishment that should inspire countless young aspirants.
Punjab Police Celebrates the Achievement
Punjab Director General of Police Gaurav Yadav congratulated Gursimran on his selection, calling it a proud moment for the Punjab Police force.
The DGP stated that the department encourages its talented and qualified personnel to pursue higher opportunities and expressed confidence that Gursimran would excel as an officer in the Indian Air Force.
Continuing a Growing Legacy
Gursimran’s achievement follows similar success stories from within the Punjab Police. In March 2024, constables Anmol Sharma and Lovepreet Singh were selected to become commissioned officers in the Indian Army after successfully clearing the Combined Defence Services (CDS) examination and the SSB interview while serving in the police force.
Their achievements, along with Gursimran’s selection, highlight the growing number of young police personnel who are pursuing opportunities to serve the nation in leadership roles within the Armed Forces.
An Inspiration for Aspirants
From serving as a constable in Punjab Police to earning a place in one of the most prestigious branches of the Indian Air Force, Gursimran Singh’s journey stands as a testament to perseverance, self-belief and dedication.
His story serves as an inspiration to countless young Indians preparing for defence services examinations, proving that determination and hard work can overcome repeated setbacks and turn ambitious dreams into reality.
Soon, the young constable from Punjab will begin a new chapter as a trainee pilot in the Indian Air Force, carrying with him the hopes of his family, his colleagues and aspiring defence personnel across the country.
