Bhawna Chaudhary Creates History as BSF’s First Female Flight Engineer: A Journey of Grit, Training, and Triumph

The Border Security Force (BSF) has achieved a historic milestone with the induction of its first-ever female flight engineer, Inspector Bhawna Chaudhary, into the elite BSF Air Wing. Her achievement marks a turning point in the 50-year history of the BSF, symbolizing both women’s empowerment and India’s growing strength in defense aviation.

Recently, BSF Director General Daljit Singh Chaudhary honored Inspector Bhawna Chaudhary and four other officers with the prestigious Flying Badge during a special ceremony. This recognition not only celebrates her individual success but also highlights a major step forward in gender inclusivity within India’s paramilitary forces.

A Remarkable Journey of Determination and Discipline

Inspector Bhawna Chaudhary’s path to becoming BSF’s first female flight engineer was not easy. It was a story of rigorous training, technical excellence, and sheer perseverance. Beginning in August 2025, Bhawna and four of her colleagues underwent an intensive two-month training program designed to prepare them for high-pressure aviation missions.

During the program, she completed over 130 hours of hands-on flying and technical sessions, mastering both theoretical and real-world scenarios. Her training involved not just flight simulations but also field operations, including rescue and relief missions during floods in Punjab and other states. These real-time challenges tested her decision-making skills and deepened her understanding of aircraft operations under extreme conditions.

BSF’s In-House Flight Engineer Training Program

The BSF Air Wing had long faced a shortage of qualified flight engineers, especially for its Mi-17 helicopters, which play a critical role in border surveillance and rescue operations. Earlier, the first batch of BSF officers received their flight engineer training from the Indian Air Force (IAF). However, due to limited training slots for the next batch, the BSF decided to launch its own internal training program with approval from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

Under this initiative, five officers — including Bhawna Chaudhary — successfully completed the rigorous course, becoming the first batch of internally trained flight engineers within BSF history. This marks a major milestone for the organization, showcasing its capability to independently train and prepare specialized aviation professionals.

The Legacy of BSF Air Wing: Serving the Nation Since 1969

Established in 1969, the BSF Air Wing has been a critical component of India’s internal and border security. It supports multiple operations across some of the country’s most challenging terrains — from the Thar Desert in Rajasthan to the snow-covered valleys of Kashmir and the dense forests of the Northeast.

The Air Wing’s missions include border surveillance, disaster relief, medical evacuation, and humanitarian assistance. Over the decades, it has played a vital role in ensuring that India’s security and emergency response capabilities remain strong and agile.

A Symbol of Women Empowerment in Defense

Inspector Bhawna Chaudhary’s achievement is not just a professional milestone but a powerful message of inspiration for women across India. Her success reflects how women are breaking barriers in defense and security services — fields that were once considered male-dominated.

By excelling in a technically demanding and high-risk domain like flight engineering, Bhawna has proven that skill, courage, and dedication know no gender boundaries. Her story will inspire countless young women to dream big and pursue careers in defense, aviation, and technology.

Looking Ahead

With officers like Bhawna Chaudhary leading the way, the BSF Air Wing continues to evolve into a modern, inclusive, and technically advanced force. Her journey underscores the importance of innovation, equality, and training excellence within India’s defense ecosystem.

As the nation celebrates this historic achievement, Bhawna’s success serves as a reminder that women are not just participants but leaders in India’s ongoing journey toward strength, progress, and national pride.