Wing Commander Deepika Misra (29283) Flying (Pilot) is on the deployed force of the helicopter unit. She is a qualified flight instructor and instrument instructor and examiner. On 21 August, the officer was deputed to conduct humanitarian and disaster relief operations in response to flash floods in northern Madhya Pradesh. Despite the likelihood of deteriorating weather, strong winds and nearing sunset, Wing Commander Deepika braved the challenging weather and was the first and only responder to reach the affected area that evening.
Its initial aerial survey and its inputs proved instrumental in planning the entire rescue operation by the IAF, NDRF, SDRF and other civilian authorities. After an initial introduction, she swung into action, picking up stranded people from roads, fields and ridges and releasing them to safe places out of the reach of the flood. In one case, she had to evacuate four villagers from the roof. Despite the high risk of spatial disorientation due to limited visual cues and flowing water, she managed to save their lives.
The rescue operation, including low lifts and a winch, took a grueling eight days and saved the lives of 47 people, including women and children. Her efforts of bravery and courage not only saved precious lives in the natural calamity but also instilled a sense of security among the common people in the flood affected area. For this act of exceptional bravery, Wing Commander Deepika Misra is awarded the Vayu Sena (Gallantry) Medal.
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