Wing Commander Maria Ismenia Sancha Pereira, from Gonsua-Betalbatim, has become the first Goan woman to be decorated in the wartime history of India. Honoured with a Mention-in-Despatch during Operation Sindoor, she played a key role as an Air Traffic Controller, providing real-time combat intelligence to the Indian Air Force.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted the significant contributions of women in India's Armed Forces during a ceremony in Goa marking the return of INSV Tarini. He emphasized their vital roles in Operation Sindoor and commended Lt Cdr Dilna K and Lt Cdr Roopa A for their historic circumnavigation aboard INSV Tarini.
