Flying Officer Shripriya Shrikant Modale From Pune Commissioned with Top Honors at Air Force Academy
Pune/Hyderabad, 15th June 2024: Today marked a momentous occasion at the Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal, as Flying Officer Shripriya Shrikant Modale was commissioned into the Indian Air Force (IAF), securing the first position in the overall order of merit in the Meteorology branch of the 213 Course. Hailing from Pune, Maharashtra, Flying Officer Modale’s journey to this achievement is a testament to her unwavering dedication and multifaceted talents.
Flying Officer Shripriya Modale’s path to success is uniquely diverse. Formerly a lifeguard and a research intern, her journey embodies perseverance and excellence. Apart from excelling academically, she has contributed significantly as a Swimming Coach, Lifeguard, First Aider, Self Defence Trainer, and National Level Player.
The auspicious occasion unfolded during the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP), where Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), presided as the Reviewing Officer. The CGP, a hallmark event for the Academy, saw 235 flight cadets culminate their rigorous training in flying and ground duty branches of the IAF. Among them, 22 women officers, including Flying Officer Shripriya Modale, were commissioned across various branches.
Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command, and Air Marshal S Shrinivas, Commandant AFA, welcomed CAS and facilitated the commencement of the ceremony. The parade featured synchronized fly-pasts and impressive drill movements, underscoring the military precision and discipline imbibed by the graduating cadets.
Flying Officer Shripriya Modale, along with her fellow officers, received their ‘Rank and Wings’ during the Commissioning Ceremony. The event was punctuated with awards recognizing outstanding achievements in training disciplines. Flying Officer Happy Singh and Flying Officer Taufeeq Raza were honored with the President’s Plaque and the Chief of the Air Staff Sword of Honour for their exceptional performances in pilot and ground duty courses, respectively.
In his address, CAS commended the graduating officers for their impeccable turnout and highlighted the evolving landscape of modern warfare. Emphasizing the importance of adapting to technological advancements and upskilling, he urged the officers to become visionary leaders capable of meeting future challenges head-on.
The CGP culminated with a spectacular aerobatic display, including performances by SU-30 MKI, the Sarang Helicopter Display Team, and the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT). The event concluded with the newly commissioned officers marching out to the traditional tune of ‘Anandaloke,’ a poignant moment symbolizing their entry into the esteemed ranks of the IAF.
