Air Vice Marshal Shakti Sharma is 1st Non-Medical Women Officer to get AVM Rank

In a landmark achievement for the Indian Defence Forces, Air Vice Marshal Shakti Sharma has become the first non-medical woman officer to attain the rank of Air Vice Marshal or its equivalent. Marking a momentous milestone for women in uniform, she assumed the appointment of Assistant Chief of the Air Staff (Education) at Air Headquarters on September 1, 2026.

Commissioned into the IAF Education Branch on June 18, 1994, AVM Sharma brings over three decades of distinguished service to her leadership role. Her career features key postings across training establishments, field stations, Command Headquarters, and Air Headquarters.

This historic milestone opens a new chapter for women officers across the services. With exceptional dedication, AVM Sharma continues to inspire generations to "Touch the Sky with Glory."