Wing Commander Vyomika Singh of the Indian Air Force has proven that dreams do take flight, quite literally. This week, Singh became one of two women chosen by the Indian government to narrate Operation Sindoor, the nation’s response to the Pahalgam terrore attack, where terrorists killed at least 26 civilians. Hours after the destruction of nine terror hubs in Pakistan, Singh’s role as a key figure in this operation underscored India’s resolve. She was joined by Colonel Sofiya Qureshi from the Army, both women embodying the strength and resolve of India’s defense forces.
Singh’s journey from a student at St. Anthony’s Senior Secondary School in Delhi to a prominent member of the Indian Air Force is a testament to perseverance, discipline, and quiet ambition. Graduating from St. Anthony’s in 1998, Singh pursued environmental engineering at the Delhi College of Engineering before joining the Indian Air Force, becoming the first among her friends to take the path less traveled.
Her school days were marked by academic excellence, athletic prowess, and a humble nature. Teachers recall her talent and discipline. “Vyomika was always equally good in both English and Hindi,” said Jyoti Bisht, who taught Singh English in high school. “She was talented, humble, and deeply involved in extracurriculars, especially basketball and debates.”
Manju Sahni, Singh’s class teacher, remembers her for her grounded and attentive nature. “She was always focused. Her discipline and kindness were the foundation of the person she has become today,” reported Indian Express.
Singh’s childhood friend, Shalini Raman Parakkat, recalls how even in school, Singh was different. “She always said her name, Vyomika, means ‘wind’ and that she was destined to be in the skies. We all thought she’d become a pilot or an aeronautical engineer, and look where she is now,” Parakkat said with pride.
Singh’s courage was evident even in her teenage years. Parakkat recalls an incident when Singh stood up to a man who disturbed her on a bus in Delhi. “That courage at such a young age was inspiring,” Parakkat shared. “It wasn’t surprising to later hear that she had joined the Air Force. She had always been fearless.”
Singh’s decision to join the Air Force wasn’t an easy one, especially in a time when there were fewer women in the defense forces. But Singh pushed forward, inspiring her friends and family with her unwavering commitment. “We were all in awe of her,” Parakkat recalled. “She was the first among us to join the forces, and it must’ve taken immense courage to convince her family.”
Today, as a Wing Commander and a mother to a teenage daughter, Singh continues to serve her country with pride and dedication. “Even when we connected later on a video call, Vyomika was still the same person we had known in school. She has never lost her essence,” Parakkat added.
Singh’s schoolmates and teachers are proud of the woman she has become. “She has made the school proud,” said Sahni. “She’s a true example of what discipline, focus, and kindness can achieve.”
Wasan, Singh’s Hindi teacher, remembers the day she wrote her famous message in Singh’s autograph book: “Vyom ko chune ke liye bani ho” (You were born to touch the skies). “At our alumni meet in December, she reminded me of that day, and I couldn’t have been more proud to see her living that very truth.”
Vyomika Singh’s story is one of courage, ambition, and an unwavering commitment to her dreams. The sky, once a distant dream, is now hers to rule.