IAF Officer Manisha Padhi Becomes India’s First Woman ADC to a Governor

Historic moment in the armed forces

IAF Officer Manisha Padhi Becomes India’s First Woman ADC to a Governor: In a bold and inspiring move, Squadron Leader Manisha Padhi has made history by becoming India’s first female Aide-De-Camp (ADC) to a state Governor. Appointed to serve Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati of Mizoram, this moment is more than just ceremonial — it marks a powerful stride in women’s participation in India’s defense and administrative sectors.

Her official appointment took place on November 29, 2024, at the Raj Bhawan in Aizawl, with all the pomp and tradition such a role demands. The announcement has since attracted national spotlight for its symbolic value in promoting gender equality in uniformed services.

Manisha Padhi’s journey

Manisha Padhi, part of the 2015 batch of the Indian Air Force, has served at key Air Force stations in Bidar, Pune, and Bhatinda. Her disciplined career and dedication earned her this prestigious position, making her not just a role model, but a living example of how the armed forces are evolving.

From a region like Odisha to the structured ranks of the IAF, her story showcases the growing openness of India’s military institutions to female leadership in ceremonial and operational roles.

What is an Aide-De-Camp?

An Aide-De-Camp (ADC) is a personal assistant to a high-ranking dignitary. In India, this position is both ceremonial and administrative, usually awarded to officers known for excellence and discipline.

• The President of India is assisted by five ADCs – three from the Army, one from the Navy, and one from the Air Force. An honorary ADC from the Territorial Army is also appointed.
• Each Service Chief is assigned three ADCs.
• State Governors generally have two ADCs – one from the armed forces and one from the police (IPS or state cadre).
• In Jammu & Kashmir, both ADCs typically come from the Army due to the region’s strategic sensitivity.

Until now, all these roles have been filled exclusively by men in the armed forces. Squadron Leader Padhi’s appointment breaks that tradition.

Breaking barriers and setting examples

Her appointment isn’t just about being the “first woman.” It’s about pushing boundaries and opening doors. The armed forces, once viewed as a male-dominated domain, are gradually embracing change.

By becoming the first woman from any Indian armed force to serve in such a high-profile protocol role, she has enhanced visibility for women officers, and encouraged many more to dream bigger. It’s a win not just for her but for every aspiring woman in uniform.

Ceremony at Aizawl

The momentous appointment took place in a formal ceremony at the Raj Bhawan in Mizoram’s capital, Aizawl, where Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati officially welcomed Squadron Leader Padhi. The event was not just a personal milestone but a historic step for India’s evolving defense structure.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table