Shivangi Singh: India’s Trailblazing Rafale Fighter Pilot and the Truth Behind Viral Claims

shivangi singh
indian air force
rafale pilot
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women in defence

Shivangi Singh, India's first female Rafale pilot, standing beside a fighter jet

Shivangi Singh has become a symbol of determination and excellence as India’s first woman to fly the formidable Rafale fighter jet. As online rumors swirl in times of heightened India-Pakistan tensions, it is essential to separate fact from fiction and highlight her remarkable career. In this article, we delve into who Shivangi Singh is, her groundbreaking achievements, and debunk misinformation with credible sources.

Who is Shivangi Singh?

Shivangi Singh is an officer in the Indian Air Force (IAF) from Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. She holds the distinction of being India’s first female Rafale fighter pilot. Her journey began with a visit to the Air Force Museum in New Delhi, which inspired her to aim for the skies. She joined the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Air Wing at Banaras Hindu University and later trained at the Indian Air Force Academy in Hyderabad.

Commissioned in 2017, Singh was among the second batch of women fighter pilots in the IAF. Her tenacity and skills led to her selection for flying the Rafale, the most advanced fighter jet in India’s arsenal. Based at the Golden Arrows Squadron in Ambala, Punjab, she has flown missions over eastern Ladakh and represented India at international exercises.

For a detailed look at her journey and training, read Who is IAF's Shivangi Singh, who was falsely claimed to have been captured by Pakistan? – Firstpost.

Debunking the Fake News: The Pakistan Capture Rumor

Recently, social media was flooded with alarming claims that Squadron Leader Shivangi Singh was captured by Pakistani forces after her aircraft was shot down. Some posts even shared unrelated videos alleging her arrest.

However, the Indian government swiftly responded to these viral rumors. The Press Information Bureau’s (PIB) Fact Check unit confirmed that the reports were completely false. Official sources urged citizens to avoid spreading unverified information and rely only on credible updates. For an in-depth account of this incident and the government's response, visit Shivani Singh, IAF's Rafale pilot captured by Pakistan? Here's the truth - The Economic Times.

A Role Model Beyond Myths

Shivangi Singh’s achievements go beyond breaking gender barriers. She has participated in major military exercises, such as Exercise Orion in France, marking the first overseas deployment of the IAF Rafale. Her story demonstrates the progress of Indian women in defense, inspiring future generations.

She once said, “If I succeeded in a field long reserved for men, women can now work in any sector.” Singh’s ambition aims even higher—she dreams of becoming an astronaut one day.

Stay alert to misinformation, as misleading news often surfaces in times of conflict. For more on the recent surge of fake news and the efforts to debunk them, check Bust Fake News With Bangalore Mirror: Sukhoi not shot down; PIB says 2014 image of crash.

Conclusion

Shivangi Singh stands as a testament to courage, skill, and the unstoppable rise of women in India’s defense forces. While rumors may come and go, her legacy as a trailblazer for the Indian Air Force remains unshaken. Always check information from official sources and be aware of the truth behind viral claims. For real updates and more about the achievements of women like Shivangi Singh, follow government advisories and credible news platforms.

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