From Darjeeling dreams to the skies: Flying Officer Sudarshan Pradhan’s inspiring journey to the IAF
To support his family and repay his loan, he took a job at an automobile service centre in Sikkim, working tirelessly while preparing for another shot at the defence services.
LOCAL
From the hills of Darjeeling to the skies of the Indian Air Force, Flying Officer Sudarshan Pradhan’s journey is a powerful tale of grit, resilience, and unwavering determination. Raised in a modest household, Sudarshan once dreamed of becoming an automobile engineer to serve society and uplift the underprivileged. Today, he proudly wears the IAF uniform, fulfilling not just a personal goal but also his grandfather’s long-cherished dream.
During his school years, Sudarshan stood out not only for his academic performance but also for his active participation in martial arts, sports, and cultural events. Engineering was his first ambition, and with limited means, he chose to pursue a B.Tech in Bangalore, funding his education through a study loan. But life had different plans.
His turning point came when he joined the National Cadet Corps (NCC) during college. What began as a college activity soon turned into a life-defining purpose. Inspired by the discipline and courage of the armed forces, he found himself drawn to the uniform. Despite several attempts at the Services Selection Board (SSB) and many rejections, Sudarshan remained undeterred.
To support his family and repay his loan, he took a job at an automobile service centre in Sikkim, working tirelessly while preparing for another shot at the defence services. His perseverance finally bore fruit when he cleared the SSB for both the Officers Training Academy (OTA) and the Air Force Academy (AFA). Though he began at OTA, his heart was set on the Indian Air Force, and he transitioned to AFA to fulfil that very dream.
Now commissioned as a Flying Officer, Sudarshan Pradhan’s story is an example of how perseverance and passion can defy odds.