From badminton court to blue uniform: Ananya Phadke commissioned as Flying Officer

For Phadke, joining the Indian Air Force fulfills a long-held aspiration.

“I have great respect for the Armed Forces and the honour of wearing the uniform,” she said.

She said attending Independence Day and Republic Day celebrations while growing up inspired her to pursue a career in the Armed Forces.

A former student of Abhinav School and Fergusson College, Phadke balanced academics with competitive sport. In 2019, she won the gold medal in the Under-17 doubles category at the Khelo India Youth Games. Besides badminton, she also enjoys trekking and volleyball.

“My years at AFMC are unforgettable,” she said, adding that staying curious, working hard and enjoying the learning process had helped her throughout her training.

Her parents, Dr Sachin Phadke and Dr Gautami Phadke, both dentists, said she had successfully balanced academics and sport while always being willing to take on new challenges.

Another emotional moment at the ceremony came for Col Jagmohan Goel, Colonel Training (Graduate Wing), who administered the oath to the graduating medical cadets, including his daughter Surgeon Sub Lieutenant Reshma Goel, who was commissioned into the Indian Navy.

“It is difficult to put my emotions into words. This is one of the proudest moments of our lives,” Col Goel said.

“Every single moment of the parade was special and I cherished each one as I watched her march with confidence and dignity,” he added.

Only tri-services passing-out parade
AFMC’s commissioning parade is the only tri-services passing-out parade in the Indian Armed Forces, where officers joining the Army, Navy and Air Force graduate together on the same parade ground.

“That makes this ceremony truly special,” said Col Yadu Vir Singh, Professor in the Department of Community Medicine and Officer-in-Charge of the parade.

Responding to a question about cadets occasionally fainting during parades, Col Singh said trainees are taught preventive measures such as moving their toes, flexing their leg muscles and taking deep breaths while standing for long periods.

“The calf muscles act like a peripheral heart, helping pump blood back to the brain,” he said.

He added that despite these precautions, prolonged standing and warm weather can sometimes cause cadets to feel light-headed. “Our medical teams are always on standby to respond immediately if required,” he said.