Pratik Pradhan, hailing from Melli in Sikkim, has made history by becoming the state's first fighter jet pilot officer.
Pradhan, son of Mahendra and Kunti Pradhan, secured the 7th rank in the competitive Army officer examination through NCC direct entry on an all-India merit basis in 2022.
His journey began with a three-month Army officer training in Chennai, where he excelled in a rigorous examination to become an Air Force flying officer.
In January 2023, Pradhan commenced his 15-month training at the Indian Airforce Academy in Hyderabad.
Upon completion of this intensive training on June 15, 2024, he was commissioned as a Fighter Jet Pilot officer.
Pradhan’s achievement is a source of immense pride for Sikkim, inspiring many young aspirants from the region.