Trailblazing Wing Commander Vijayalakshmi Ramanan: Designing Her Own Uniform and Paving the Way in the Indian Air Force

Wing Commander (Retd) Dr. Vijayalakshmi Ramanan VSM holds a distinguished place in India’s military history as the first woman officer in the Indian Air Force. During a time when women's presence in the armed forces was negligible, she emerged as a trailblazer by joining the IAF, serving for 24 years as a medical officer. Her career included contributions during three significant wars, paving the way for future generations of women in the military.

Born in Madras, now Chennai, on February 27, 1924, Vijayalakshmi Ramanan was raised in an environment that emphasized discipline, education, and public service. Her father, T.D. Narayana Iyer, was a World War I veteran and a public health official, influencing her commitment to national service. Despite an early talent in music, evidenced by her status as an A-grade artist with All India Radio at 15, she chose a medical career, inspired by pioneering women of her era. Her musical prowess saw her performing before national leaders like Sarojini Naidu and Mahatma Gandhi.

Her academic journey began at Madras Medical College in 1943, where she excelled, earning the Balfour Memorial Medal for Medicine and the Madras University Prize for Surgery, graduating in 1948 as the best student. After completing her MD in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, she honed her medical skills at the Egmore Maternity Hospital in Chennai, establishing a reputation for clinical excellence.

In 1955, she married Wing Commander K.V. Ramanan, an encouragement to join the Indian armed forces, leading her to be commissioned into the Indian Army Medical Corps and later seconded to the IAF. Her entry marked a significant moment as she became the first female officer in the Air Force.

Facing initial challenges, she crafted her own uniform since none existed for women at the time, choosing a blue sari and tan blouse, setting a standard later adopted officially. Her medical duties came with practical hurdles, such as adapting her attire for procedures, which she addressed with innovation.

Throughout her tenure, she was stationed at various Air Force hospitals, including those in Jalahalli, Kanpur, Secunderabad, and Bengaluru, specializing in obstetrics and gynaecology. Her commitment to patient care was well-known, and from 1968, she served as Senior Gynaecologist and Obstetrician in Bengaluru, often managing her department alone and remaining on call around the clock.

Dr. Ramanan's service coincided with major conflicts: the 1962 Sino-Indian War, the 1965 Indo-Pak War, and the 1971 Indo-Pak War. Her role in the medical teams during these times underscored her dedication and resilience in wartime conditions.

She experienced personal loss in 1971 with the death of her husband yet continued her military service while raising two children, showcasing her strength and composure. Her ability to balance personal and professional life exemplified her character.

Her service excellence was recognized with the Vishisht Seva Medal in 1977, awarded by President Neelam Sanjiva Reddy, for her work in the Family Wing and her contributions to family planning in the armed forces.

Upon retiring as a Wing Commander on February 28, 1979, she continued to serve the community through her private medical practice in Bengaluru, offering free care to those in need and mentoring aspiring women doctors in the Armed Forces Medical Services.

While maintaining her medical practice, she remained engaged in music and cultural activities, teaching family members and supporting various social causes related to healthcare and education discreetly.

Dr. Vijayalakshmi Ramanan passed away on October 18, 2020, in Bengaluru at the age of 96. Her legacy as the first woman officer in the Indian Air Force is marked by perseverance, courage, and a commitment to service, demonstrating that capability transcends gender barriers.

She is remembered as a pioneer who exemplified professional excellence with humility, serving selflessly in both peace and war, and continues to be an inspirational figure for many across the nation.