NT Reporter
Margao
Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Wing Commander Maria Ismenia Sancha Pereira has become the first ever Goan woman to be decorated in India’s wartime history after receiving a Mention-in-Despatch for her role in Operation Sindoor.
Wing Commander Pereira, who hails from Gonsua, Betalbatim, performed the role of an Air Traffic Controller (ATC) and provided in-depth intelligence inputs from radars that helped the IAF fighter aircrafts to seek and destroy vital enemy targets.
She also helped in the early warning of adversary aircrafts and missiles aimed at India, shared Colonel Jesus Furtado. Her role in the operation has earned her a Mention-in-Despatch for distinguished service in wartime during actual combat operations of Operation Sindoor, he said.
A Mention-in-Despatch (MID) is a recognition for distinguished and meritorious service in operational areas.
Commending Pereira for her role in the operation, Colonel Furtado said, “She is a great motivation for the women of Goa, who have very often been portrayed negatively by the tourism lobby and Bollywood.”
Pereira completed her schooling at the Mary Immaculate Conception High School in Panaji followed by Green Rosary Higher Secondary, Dona Paula. She completed her engineering from the Goa Engineering College at Farmagudi.
Operation Sindoor was initiated in May this year following the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed the lives of 26 innocent civilians. Operation Sindoor was aimed at targeting and dismantling the terror infrastructure across the Line of Control and in Pakistan.
Congratulating Pereira, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said, “A historic moment for Goa as she becomes the first Goan woman to be decorated in India’s wartime history, receiving a mention-in-despatch for her exemplary role as Air Traffic Controller during Operation Sindoor. Her professionalism, dedication and service in safeguarding the nation are a source of immense pride for Goa and for the country.”
Union Minister of State for Power and New and Renewable Energy Shripad Naik was among the leaders who saluted the wing commander.
