Udupi: A spirited young woman from rural Udupi has shown that sheer willpower can turn lofty aspirations into reality. Seema Tendulkar, daughter of farmer Sadananda Nayak and educator Jayashree Tendulkar from the hamlet of Pernankila, has secured a coveted post as a pilot in the Indian Navy.
Seema’s fascination with the armed forces began in childhood. While most classmates chased routine careers, she clung to a single goal: earning the uniform. After finishing primary and secondary studies at a private school in Hiriadka, she moved to Karkala for her pre-university course. Her academic journey then led to an engineering degree in Bengaluru, yet her heart kept beating to a military cadence.
Although busy with circuitry and design projects, Seema carved out time for the National Cadet Corps. Her NCC stint culminated in representing Karnataka in the Guard of Honour during the 2022 Republic Day Parade—an experience that sharpened her resolve.
When the Armed Forces held a direct-entry interview, Seema cleared every stage, winning a commission as Sub Lieutenant. She is now immersed in rigorous flight and leadership training at the Indian Naval Academy, Kerala, edging closer to the cockpit of a naval aircraft.
Proud parents recall sleepless nights spent encouraging their daughter’s dream. “Joining NCC was my first step,” Seema says. “Marching down Rajpath convinced me I belonged in uniform. Today that childhood vision is finally airborne.”
Her story underscores a simple truth: backgrounds may be humble, but ambitions can soar sky-high.
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