Indian Women in Defense unleashing motivation from battlefields to keynote speeches
In the heart of India’s defense forces, a remarkable transformation is taking place—one that extends beyond the battlegrounds and into the realm of inspiration. As the world witnesses an evolution in the roles played by women in the armed forces. These women in defense emerge as not just defenders of the nation but also as powerful motivational speakers.
In a society where traditional gender norms have often dictated the path women are expected to tread. These women in defense have shattered stereotypes and carved their own destinies. Through their experiences in the defense forces. They have not only demonstrated exceptional courage but have also found their voices as motivational speakers. These women are not confined by the uniform; instead, they use their platforms to inspire others, both within and outside the armed forces. Discover the untold stories of Indian women in defense who stand tall. Not just in uniform, but also behind the mic, echoing a message of strength, determination, and the limitless potential that lies within every individual.
1. Major Vandana Sharma
Major Vandana Sharma stands as a paragon of courage, leadership, and inspiration in the realms of both the military and the motivational speaking circuit. A distinguished woman leader, entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, mentor, coach, and an ex-military officer from the Indian Army. Major Vandana Sharma’s journey is a testament to her multifaceted excellence. Major Sharma played a pivotal back-end role during the Kargil War in 1999. Showcasing not only her dedication to the nation but also her strategic acumen.
Beyond her impressive accolades, Major Vandana Sharma has seamlessly transitioned into the role of a sought-after motivational speaker. Her talks resonate with audiences, drawing from her rich experiences in the military and corporate sectors. She was the LinkedIn Top Voice in 2019, and she also the prestigious title of International Woman Icon Asia Pacific in 2017. Her notable contributions encompassed value chain projects and people initiatives within esteemed organizations like the Indian Army, Wipro, GMR Group, TNT, and Myntra. As a mentor and coach, she imparts invaluable wisdom, inspiring individuals to overcome challenges and reach their full potential.
2. Dr. Seema Rao
Dr. Seema Rao, a formidable force in India’s defense landscape. Has not only shattered glass ceilings but has also left an indelible mark as a trailblazer in close quarter battle (CQB) tactics. Renowned as India’s first woman commando trainer. Dr. Rao’s illustrious career spans over two decades of training the Special Forces of India without compensation, showcasing her unwavering dedication to the nation. She also co-authored significant works like “Encyclopedia of Close Combat Ops” and “A Comprehensive Analysis of World Terrorism,” contributing to the academic discourse on defense strategies.
A woman of many firsts, Dr. Rao earned her Para Wings through skydiving in the Indian Air Force course and is one of the few instructors authorized to teach Jeet Kune Do. She co-invented The Rao System of Reflex Fire, a groundbreaking shooting method. Recognized for her exceptional contributions, Dr. Seema Rao was ranked sixth in the 2019 Forbes India W-Power Trailblazer list and received the prestigious Nari Shakti Puraskar from the President of India in 2019. Dr. Seema’s talks inspire individuals to push boundaries and embrace resilience in the face of challenges. Making her a true icon in both defense and motivation.
3. Wing Commander Namrita Chandi
Namrita Chandi’s journey is a testament to her remarkable achievements as an Ex-Indian Air Force Helicopter Pilot, Leadership & Corporate Trainer, Success Coach, TedX Speaker, Author, and Aviation Expert. With a career marked by pioneering accomplishments. Namrita holds the distinction of being the first woman pilot to have landed at the highest Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) in the world. During her tenure as an Indian Air Force Helicopter Pilot. Namrita Chandi amassed diverse flying experiences in all terrains and states of India, including the challenging Siachen Glacier
Beyond her aviation feats, Namrita Chandi has seamlessly transitioned into the role of a motivational speaker. With 27 years of cross-sector and cross-functional business leadership roles, she brings a wealth of experience to her talks. Namrita’s dynamic presentations, marked by insights from her military and corporate journey, have made her a sought-after speaker at prestigious platforms like TedX. Her engaging narrative not only encapsulates her aviation expertise but also imparts valuable lessons in leadership, resilience, and unwavering work ethic, establishing her as a beacon of inspiration in both the defense and motivational realms.
4. Wing Commander Pooja Thakur
Wing Commander Pooja Thakur’s journey in the Indian Air Force is an inspiring narrative of breaking barriers and achieving unprecedented milestones. Commissioned as an Administrative Officer in 2001 after rigorous training on par with her male counterparts. She has since carved a distinguished path within the IAF. Her commitment to excellence reached new heights in 2015 when she etched her name in history as the first Indian woman to lead the Guard of Honor during the visit of US President Barack Obama.
Throughout her career, Wing Commander Thakur has undertaken diverse roles, showcasing her versatility in Project Management, Personnel Management, Procurement, Creative Content, Film Productions, and Event Management. Beyond her exceptional military accomplishments, Wing Commander Pooja Thakur has become a beacon of inspiration as a motivational speaker. Her talks encapsulate not only her experiences in the defense forces but also her passion for adventure. As a certified Deep Sea Diver, Bungee Jumper, Rafter, Skier, and Paraglider, she embodies the spirit of fearlessness and adventure.
5. Major Prajakta Desai
Prajakta Desai’s illustrious career is marked by a series of groundbreaking achievements. Making her an iconic figure in both military and civilian spheres. Serving as an Air Traffic Controller and earning the distinction of being the First UAV Observer Pilot of the Indian Army. Major Desai’s expertise transcends conventional boundaries. Beyond her military service, she has soared to new heights as an accomplished speaker, sharing her experiences on prestigious platforms such as Tedx.
Major Prajakta Desai is not only a motivational speaker but also a passionate animal rescuer, mountaineer, skydiver, and hot air balloonist. Her commitment to adventure and resilience is not only seen in her military roles but also in her pursuits beyond the uniform. She was honored with the Ahilyadevi Holkar National Award in 2022. Major Prajakta Desai’s speaking engagements are marked by a captivating blend of her military experiences, adventurous pursuits, and a profound commitment to inspiring others.
6. Major Priya Jhingan
Major Priya Jhingan is an exceptional Indian Army officer, Lady Cadet No 1, and silver medalist from the inaugural batch of 25 lady officers commissioned in the Indian Army in 1993. In the historic first batch of lady officers. Major Jhingan played a pivotal role in paving the way for women in the Indian Army. Her dedication and leadership were recognized when she was felicitated by the President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind. Alongside 112 other prominent women from various fields in India.
Major Jhingan’s advocacy for equal opportunities for women in the Indian Army has resonated nationally. Her speaking engagements serve as a powerful platform to inspire change. She was also a participant in the first season of Khatron Ke Khiladi. As a motivational speaker, she brings her experiences to life. Emphasizing the importance of gender equality and women’s roles in the armed forces.
These women in defense exemplify the adage that the strength of a nation lies not only in its weaponry but in the indomitable spirit of its people. May their stories continue to reverberate, inspiring generations to come, and encouraging individuals to embrace their potential with the same unwavering courage that defines these incredible warriors-turned-motivators.
When it comes to booking/ hiring these women in defense who are brilliant speakers. You can book/hire them via engage4more’s passionate team. Our working relations with over 2,500+ talented artists come with an assurance of best-suited artist suggestions for your event with pacy bookings and great prices. Also, enjoy our value adds like complimentary quizzing for your events along with free publicity by our post-event coverage via our social media handles!
Start your artist booking journey here.
