Flight Lieutenant Maria Shanti Amarante Lourdes Esperanca Chaves
By John Aguiar
Flight Lieutenant Maria Shanti Amarante Lourdes Esperanca Chaves made history as the first Goan woman Air Traffic Control Officer in the Indian Air Force.
As an Air Traffic Control Officer, Maria played a vital role in ensuring the safe takeoff and landing of aircraft. Her achievement is a testament to the growing presence of women in the Indian Air Force, breaking barriers and inspiring future generations .
Her journey is truly inspiring. Commissioned as a Pilot Officer on 24 May 1996, she went on to complete the Basic Air Traffic Control Officer's course at Air Force Academy, Dundigal. Her hard work and dedication have paved the way for her success in the Indian Air Force.
Her service tenure has been impressive! With postings across various Air Force stations, she's held key roles like DATCO, Station Legal Officer, and Administrative Officer. Her diverse experience and leadership have contributed to the Indian Air Force's operations and excellence.
Her educational background is impressive. From St Ann's Convent to VM Salgaocar College of Law, she's had a fantastic academic journey. Pursuing an LLM in Human Rights post-release from IAF shows her commitment to continuous learning. The diverse range of subjects, from Microbiology to Law, speaks volumes about her versatility and passion for knowledge.
Her roots are deeply connected to Goa. Born to late Mr. Antonio Julio Chaves and Adolfina Quiteria A.C.Cardozo e Chaves, she's made her family proud. Married to Mr Francisco F.J.D.Reverdo, a banker from Panaji, and blessed with two sons, Darren and Darnell — her personal life is a beautiful blend of love and achievement.
Post Release from service, Flight Lieutenant Maria Shanti is giving back to the community, using her experience and expertise to make a positive impact in Goa's social and educational sectors. Her commitment to serving others is truly inspiring.
She got a solid foundation for her dreams! Working with Adv C F Alvares' office and getting registered with the Bar Council must've given her a taste of the legal world. And a huge shoutout to her sis Tereza for being her rockstar support system. Getting those magazines and preparing for AFSB's with her dad's guidance. And kudos to her for pushing herself physically, especially with the early morning jogs.
In early 1995, she saw the advt inviting women to join the JAG branch of the Army and she applied for it . In another few days ,there was an advt of 05SSC(W)ADM(ATC/FC)course Of Indian Air force inviting women to join IAF as Air Traffic Controllers and Fighter controllers, she applied for it this too.
Flt Lt Maria Shanti was shortlisted for both, her Army SSB was scheduled to be held at Allahabad and Airforce AFSB was at Mysore.
After discussing with her family she chose to go for Air force selection at No 2 AFSB Mysore.
On the first day of AFSB,they checked their documents and they had a screening test and after that test only 15 of them were given chest numbers and asked to stay back for a further period of 5 days.
During the next five days they were subjected to various psychological, physical tests, group tasks, individual tasks, group discussions, interviews, etc trying to find if they had the OLQ's (officer like qualities.) And finally on the last day three of them were recommended and they were told to wait for intimation regarding the medicals.
After about two months, she received a letter from IAF informing her about the medicals to be held at IAM(Institute of Aerospace Medicine) Banglore. This was in December 1995 .
She was recommended by the medical Board .
Finally in February 1996 she received joining instructions asking her to report to Air force Administrative college, Coimbatore on 03 March 1996
Flt Lt Maria Shanti said that discipline is what sets the Indian Armed Forces apart, and these qualities are essential for success, not just in defence, but in life. Punctuality, honesty, and integrity are the foundation of a strong character, and if defence aspirants from Goa can imbibe these values, they're setting themselves up for a bright future.
On joining the Armed Forces she says it is challenging, but the rewards are worth it. Staying focused and never giving up is key. The bonds you form, the camaraderie, and esprit de corps — it's a unique experience that goes beyond all boundaries.
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