Himachal's Squadron Leader Sumangla Sharma Receives Gallantry Commendation for Operation Sindoor
Squadron Leader Sumangla Sharma, a pilot in the Indian Air Force hailing from Himachal Pradesh, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming one of the first female officers in the history of the Indian military to be awarded a gallantry commendation for her involvement in Operation Sindoor.
As an alumna of Kendriya Vidyalaya in Shimla, Sqn Ldr Sharma was “Mentioned in Dispatches,” a prestigious recognition that was announced as part of the Independence Day honours.
Specialising in weapon control systems, Sharma assumed the role of Operations Officer during a critical air defence operation on the night of May 8, 2025. During this time, a hostile Pakistani UAV breached Indian airspace.
Exhibiting exceptional composure, she directed her combat team to launch a Pechora surface-to-air missile, which was successful in destroying the UAV.
Her steady leadership in a high-pressure situation not only eliminated the threat but also safeguarded numerous lives, earning her significant accolades within the defence community.
