THE GOAN
PANAJI
The aircraft may be the first thing we notice, but the person behind the controls carries the responsibility of every flight. When we think of the Indian Air Force, we often picture fighter jets cutting through the sky, helicopters flying over difficult terrain or aircraft taking off at speed. But behind these machines are personnel who have trained extensively to operate them, make decisions under pressure and, at times, put their own lives on the line. For those in the Indian Air Force, flying is not simply about speed, skill or navigating difficult terrain. It is about staying focused when the stakes are high, making decisions in a matter of seconds and understanding the responsibility that comes with serving in the country’s defence.
The road ahead
The road to that seat in the cockpit is equally demanding. Years of rigorous training, discipline and sacrifice prepare airmen and women for situations where there is little room for error. And even after the training is over, the need to remain alert never really leaves. As the Indian Air Force marks Air Force Day on October 8, we spoke to Air Marshal Sandesh Prabhakar Wagle, Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Vayu Sena Medal (Retd.), Air Vice Marshal Sunil Nanodkar, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Vayu Sena Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal (Retd.), and Wing Commander Uvena Fernandes about their journeys in uniform, the choices that led them to the skies, the challenges they faced along the way, and the pride and responsibility that came with serving the nation.
Beyond flying
Air Marshal Sandesh Prabhakar Wagle, PVSM, VM (Retd.), has over 6,000 hours of flying experience and has served in operations including Meghdoot in Siachen and Pawan in Sri Lanka. He later held senior positions, including Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, and was awarded the Param Vishisht Seva Medal in 2023. Having joined the National Defence Academy in 1980, Wagle explains that aspirants undergo the Union Public Service Commission examination, Services Selection Board interview and medical examination before beginning three years of training at the National Defence Academy, followed by specialised training at the Air Force Academy.
For Wagle, however, the role goes beyond flying. Air warriors protect the country’s skies, assist during natural disasters, rescue stranded citizens and take part in United Nations peacekeeping missions. The experience also builds professionalism, discipline, leadership, integrity and character. “When citizens have these values, it leads to strong nation building,” he says. For those considering the Air Force, he believes that if they are willing to “put service before self” and have the courage, discipline and spirit of adventure the role demands, it is a path worth considering.
A childhood dream
For Air Vice Marshal Sunil Nanodkar, AVSM, VM, VSM (Retd), the dream of becoming a fighter pilot began in Class VII. “I was motivated to join AF as a fighter pilot while I was in Class seven. Watching fighter planes brought that feeling early in life. Father and mother supported me in fulfilling my dream,” he says. Nanodkar has always considered wearing the uniform to be a matter of pride, but being a fighter pilot made the feeling even greater. “What better way to serve one’s country than to be defending it from above against any adversary? It was a passion I was following every day,” he says, adding that each day brought a fresh challenge to deal with.
The journey had its setbacks, but Nanodkar credits his mentors, peers and family for their support. “Life always was challenging and tough yet enjoyable,” he says, particularly acknowledging his wife for standing by him throughout. Looking back, he calls it a dream come true that he would relive if given the chance. “Being a fighter pilot is not employment but a way of life,” he says, advising young people to stay focused and determined and find their own way to contribute to nation-building.
For Wing Commander Uvena Fernandes, the uniform itself represents years of preparation. “Wearing the uniform is an honour that we have been given after years of training and studying,” she says. Aspirants can enter the Indian Air Force through different routes, including the National Defence Academy, Air Force Common Admission Test, Combined Defence Services examination and National Cadet Corps Special Entry, depending on their eligibility. For Fernandes, however, the different routes ultimately lead to the same responsibility. “You have the honour of wearing the uniform and serving the country. It brings out the best in you,” she says.
Their journeys may have taken different paths, but the message they leave behind is similar: a career in the Air Force demands commitment, discipline and a willingness to keep learning. For the next generation, their experiences offer not just a glimpse into life in the service, but a reminder that there are many ways to serve the country.
