Biography of Group Captain Abhay Arun Phansalkar
Group Captain Abhay Arun Phansalkar is a distinguished officer of the Indian Air Force (IAF), currently holding the prestigious position of Deputy Military Secretary to the President of India as of February 25, 2025. Born into a family with a likely strong sense of duty and service—though specific details about his early life and family background are not widely documented—he embarked on a remarkable military career that reflects dedication, leadership, and operational excellence.
Commissioned into the Flying (Pilot) branch of the Indian Air Force on June 20, 1998, with the service number 25114, Group Captain Phansalkar began his journey as a skilled aviator. His career trajectory showcases his expertise in handling advanced fighter aircraft and commanding critical units during both peacetime and operational scenarios. Over the years, he has risen through the ranks, earning accolades for his professionalism and contributions to the IAF.
One of the highlights of his career came on November 10, 2016, when he was the Commanding Officer of 30 Squadron, an elite unit of the IAF equipped with Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter jets, based in Pune. On that date, President Pranab Mukherjee, the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, presented the President’s Standard to the squadron at a ceremony in Ambala. This prestigious award recognized the unit’s exceptional service during war and peace, underscoring Phansalkar’s leadership in maritime operations and air defense roles. The 30 Squadron, originally raised on MiG-21s at Tezpur, had evolved under his command into a formidable force with a broad operational mandate.
Before his current role as Deputy Military Secretary to the President, Phansalkar’s career included significant command and staff appointments. His training likely involved rigorous programs at premier IAF institutions, such as those in Bathinda or Halwara, where pilots refine their skills on advanced aircraft. His operational experience spans high-stakes missions, possibly including air superiority tasks and strategic deployments, given the capabilities of the Su-30 MKI platform.
As Deputy Military Secretary, Group Captain Phansalkar serves within the President’s Secretariat, assisting the Military Secretary in managing ceremonial, operational, and administrative duties related to the President’s role as the Head of State and Supreme Commander. This position demands meticulous coordination between the armed forces and the Rashtrapati Bhavan, ensuring the seamless execution of state functions and military engagements. His appointment to this role reflects his reputation as a dependable and resourceful officer, capable of handling sensitive responsibilities with finesse.
While specific personal details—such as his birth date, hometown, or educational background—are not publicly available, his professional journey suggests a strong academic foundation, possibly in science or engineering, typical of IAF officers, followed by specialized flight training. His tenure in the IAF, spanning over 26 years by 2025, highlights a career marked by resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to national security.
Group Captain Phansalkar’s story is one of quiet excellence, embodying the ethos of the Indian Air Force: “Touch the Sky with Glory.” His leadership in operational squadrons and his current role in the President’s Secretariat position him as a key figure in India’s military hierarchy, contributing to both defense preparedness and the ceremonial dignity of the presidency.