Who is Akshita Dhankar? The officer who hoisted India’s flag with President Murmu on Republic Day

India celebrated its 77th Republic Day on 26 January, with patriotic fervour sweeping across the nation. This year, all eyes were on Flight Lieutenant Akshita Dhankar, who had the honour of standing alongside President Droupadi Murmu at Kartavya Path to unfurl the national flag.

Speaking about the experience, Dhankar described the moment as one of “immense pride and responsibility.” She told ANI, “I feel honoured. We’ve been practising for more than two months. The practice has been rigorous. We’ve been waking up early and returning home late, but in the end, it is all worth it. This is what the armed forces stand for – courage, unity and determination.”

Early Life

Akshita Dhankar was born in Kasni village, Haryana, a region renowned for its military tradition and patriotic spirit. Fascinated by the Republic Day parade from a young age, she nurtured a dream of serving the nation.

Her academic journey took her to Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Khalsa College, Delhi University, where she joined the National Cadet Corps (NCC). Dhankar excelled during her tenure, attaining the rank of Cadet Sergeant Major (CSM), bringing her closer to her dream of joining the Indian armed forces.

Journey to the Indian Air Force

After college, Dhankar took the Air Force Common Admission Test (AFCAT), the principal entrance examination for officer entry. She passed with distinction and secured a recommendation from the Air Force Selection Board (AFSB) in Mysore.

She was selected for the Administration (ADM) branch under the AFCAT (W) 551 entry and was commissioned as a Flying Officer on 17 June 2023, with service number 38704 ADM. She belongs to the 211 Short Service Commission (Women) Ground Duty Course and was later promoted to the rank of Flight Lieutenant on merit.

Role in the Indian Air Force

Currently serving in the Administrative branch of the Indian Air Force, Flight Lieutenant Dhankar plays a crucial role in personnel management, logistics, and organisational coordination, contributing significantly to operational readiness.