Ananya Phadke, a Khelo India badminton gold‑medallist, has been commissioned as a Flying Officer in the Indian Air Force and honoured with the President’s Gold Medal for being the best all‑round outgoing medical cadet. The accolade was presented during the 60th batch commissioning ceremony at the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), overseen by Director General Armed Forces Medical Services (DGAFMS) Surgeon Vice Admiral Arti Sarin.

Fulfilling a Lifelong Dream

Phadke said that watching Independence Day and Republic Day celebrations as a child instilled a deep respect for the armed forces and sparked her ambition to wear the uniform. Joining the IAF now marks the fulfilment of that long‑held aspiration.

Balancing Academics and Sport

A former student of Abhinav School and Fergusson College, Phadke excelled both in the classroom and on the court. In 2019 she clinched the gold medal in the Under‑17 doubles event at the Khelo India Youth Games, cementing her status as a national‑level athlete. Beyond badminton, she enjoys trekking and volleyball, exemplifying a well‑rounded personality.

Unique Tri‑Service Passing‑Out Parade

AFMC’s commissioning parade is the only tri‑service passing‑out ceremony in the Indian Armed Forces, where cadets joining the Army, Navy and Air Force graduate together on the same ground. This year, 112 graduates were commissioned into the Indian Army, 12 into the Indian Navy, and 17 into the Indian Air Force.

Family Pride and Emotional Moments

Phadke’s parents, both dentists, praised her ability to juggle rigorous academics with high‑performance sport while always embracing new challenges. The ceremony also featured an emotional highlight when Colonel Jagmohan Goel administered the oath to his daughter, Surgeon Sub‑Lieutenant Reshma Goel, who was commissioned into the Indian Navy, underscoring the personal significance of the event.