Understanding the Question: First Female Indian Navy Pilot 2017

The question asks to identify the first woman pilot who was officially inducted into the Indian Navy in the year 2017. This marks a significant milestone in the history of women in the Indian armed forces, particularly in combat roles like piloting.

Let's examine the options provided to determine who fits this description.

Analyzing the Options

We need to evaluate each individual listed to see if they were the first female pilot inducted into the Indian Navy in 2017.

• Tessy Thomas: Known as the 'Missile Woman of India', she is a prominent scientist at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Her work has been primarily in missile technology, not as a pilot in the Navy.
• Zaira Wasim: She is a former Indian actress. Her career is in the film industry, with no connection to the Indian Navy or aviation.
• Shubhangi Swaroop: In December 2017, Shubhangi Swaroop made history by becoming the first female pilot to be inducted into the Indian Navy. She was part of the first batch of women officers who were selected for the Naval Armament Inspection (NAI) branch, Air Traffic Control (ATC) branch, and as pilots.
• Dipa Karmakar: She is a celebrated Indian artistic gymnast who gained prominence for her performance in the Olympics. Her field is sports, specifically gymnastics, not the Indian Navy or aviation.

Identifying the First Female Pilot in Indian Navy (2017)

Based on the analysis of the options and historical records, Shubhangi Swaroop is the individual who holds the distinction of being the first female pilot inducted into the Indian Navy in 2017. Her induction opened new avenues for women in combat roles within the naval aviation branch.

Revision Table: Pioneers and Achievements

Additional Information on Women in Indian Defence Forces

The induction of Shubhangi Swaroop as a pilot in the Indian Navy in 2017 was part of a larger movement to allow women to take on more diverse and challenging roles in the armed forces. Prior to this, women were mainly inducted into non-combat support roles or specific branches like medical services, legal, or education.

• The decision to induct women in combat roles and aviation branches signifies a progressive step towards gender equality and operational effectiveness in the Indian defence sector.
• Alongside Shubhangi Swaroop, other women officers were inducted into different branches of the Navy in 2017, breaking barriers in fields like Naval Armament Inspection and Air Traffic Control.
• The Indian Air Force also commissioned its first batch of female fighter pilots (Avani Chaturvedi, Bhawana Kanth, and Mohana Singh) in 2016, paving the way for women in combat flying roles.