In a historic milestone, Squadron Leader Manisha Padhi, a distinguished 2015 batch Indian Air Force officer, has achieved a groundbreaking feat by being appointed as the first woman Indian Air Force officer to serve as Aide-De-Camp (ADC) to a governor in the country. Her notable assignment comes under the patronage of Mizoram Governor, Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati.

Sqn Leader Manisha Padhi officially assumed her responsibilities at Raj Bhavan, Mizoram, marking a significant moment in the annals of the Indian Armed Forces. Prior to her current appointment, Padhi has demonstrated her commitment and prowess in various capacities at key Air Force Stations, including Bidar, Pune, and Bhatinda.

Hailing from the serene Ganjam district in Odisha, Sqn Leader Padhi is an alumna of the esteemed CV Raman College of Engineering, Bhubaneswar. Her roots in Bhubaneswar, where her parents reside, further highlight the widespread pride accompanying her accomplishments.

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Governor Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati conveyed his heartfelt congratulations to Sqn Leader Manisha Padhi on her pioneering role as the ADC. In a statement posted on November 29, he expressed best wishes for her continued success, acknowledging her as India’s first woman Indian Armed Forces officer appointed as Aide-De-Camp to a Governor.

The role of an Aide-De-Camp holds profound significance, denoting an officer in the armed forces who assists a superior officer. In the Indian context, this title is a mark of honor, and individuals serving or having served in this capacity receive the post-nominal letters ADC.

The hierarchical distribution of aides-de-camp varies across different echelons of authority. Service chiefs, such as those from the Army, Navy, and Air Staff, typically have three aides-de-camp. The President, on the other hand, can have five aides-de-camp, including representatives from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and the Territorial Army.

In the specific context of Indian governors, the tradition involves two aides-de-camp, drawn from the Indian Armed Forces and the Indian and state police services. A noteworthy exception exists in Jammu and Kashmir, where both aides-de-camp to the governor have exclusive appointment from the Indian Army.

Sqn Leader Manisha Padhi’s appointment not only marks a personal triumph but also exemplifies the progressive strides taken by women in the Indian Armed Forces, breaking barriers and setting new standards of excellence. The nation looks forward to witnessing her continued achievements in this historic role.