Salam Fauji:Wing Commander Neha Vivek Marathe (Retd)

 Margao to the Skies: A Conversation with Wing Commander Neha Vivek Marathe (Retd)

By John Aguiar

Wing Commander Neha Vivek Marathe (Retd) is a shining example of dedication, resilience, and breaking barriers. Born and raised in Margao, her journey from a young girl with a dream to a distinguished Engineering Officer in the Indian Air Force spans 14 glorious years of service to the nation. This interview carries a special personal resonance for me; having been a classmate of Neha’s mother, Mrs. Neelam Marathe, during our days at Chowgule College, it is a moment of immense pride to chronicle the heights her daughter has reached. Today, I sit down with her to discuss her inspiring path, the challenges she overcame, and the profound lessons she learned while protecting our nation’s skies.

John Aguiar: Wing Commander, it is an absolute pleasure to speak with you. On a personal note, having shared classrooms with your mother, Neelam, back at Chowgule College, seeing the distinguished officer you have become fills me with a unique sense of pride. Let’s start at the very beginning. You grew up in Margao and attended Mahila & Nutan English High School. How did your early years in Goa shape the officer you would eventually become?

Wg Cdr Neha Marathe: Thank you, John Uncle. That is a lovely connection to hear about! My parents, Mr. Vivek and Mrs. Neelam Marathe, were indeed my foundation. They instilled in me early on that no dream is too big. While my mother laid a rock-solid foundation for my academics, my father—a passionate sportsman himself—pushed my sister and me to chase excellence in sports and co-curricular activities. That environment shaped me into an all-rounder and even helped me represent Goa twice in the National School Games in badminton.

John Aguiar: Many young students dream of different careers, but the spark for the armed forces is often unique. When did you first realize you wanted to wear the Indian Air Force uniform?
Wg Cdr Neha Marathe: The turning point came in 8th standard when I watched a television serial on the IAF. That single moment ignited a fire within me. The discipline, purpose, adventure, and the pride of wearing the uniform left an indelible mark. What started as admiration quickly turned into a burning ambition. From that day forward, I began living my life as if I was already an Air Force officer—mentally preparing for every challenge, whether it was school orals, competitions, or college exams.

John Aguiar: Having a dream is one thing, but executing it requires immense preparation. How did you align your education, especially during your time at Padre Conceicao College of Engineering (PCCE) in Verna, with this goal?

Wg Cdr Neha Marathe: When I finally shared my dream with my parents, they didn’t just support me—they became my strongest pillars. I consciously chose the Science stream after 10th and pursued engineering at PCCE, always keeping my ultimate goal in mind. I prepared with relentless focus—reading newspapers, tracking current affairs, and maintaining detailed notes.

John Aguiar: I understand there was a rather dramatic moment involving a corporate job offer right before you joined the academy. Could you tell us about that?
Wg Cdr Neha Marathe: [Laughs] Yes! In my final year of engineering, I secured a campus placement with Tata Consultancy Services (TCS). But my heart remained firmly set on the IAF. Just two months after graduation, I appeared for the Services Selection Board (SSB) interview and cleared it in my very first attempt! While awaiting the merit list, I joined TCS training in Ahmedabad. On just the second day of training, the merit list was announced—and I had made it! I immediately left TCS and returned home, brimming with excitement to begin my journey at the Air Force Academy.

John Aguiar: You officially joined the IAF in January 2011. Tell us about your role and what those 14 years of service taught you.

Wg Cdr Neha Marathe: I served as an Air Defence Engineering Officer, managing critical assets that protected our nation’s skies. My postings took me from the dense forests of the North East to the harsh deserts of the West. Every posting pushed me beyond my limits and taught me invaluable lessons in leadership, resilience, and teamwork. Leading teams of seasoned airmen, many older than my own father, taught me that true leadership is earned through competence, courage, and consistency—not just rank.

John Aguiar: You were also part of a deeply historic moment for the country during the 2015 Republic Day Parade. What was going through your mind as you marched down Rajpath?

Wg Cdr Neha Marathe: That was undoubtedly one of the proudest moments of my career. Marching as part of the first all-women officers’ contingent at the Republic Day Parade in 2015 was unforgettable. Standing tall in that historic moment, I felt the power of breaking barriers and the pride of representing a changing India.

John Aguiar: On a personal note, the IAF gave you more than just a career, didn’t it?

Wg Cdr Neha Marathe: Absolutely. During training, I met my life partner—also a serving officer—and we are now blessed with a beautiful daughter. The Indian Air Force didn’t just give me a career—it gave me wings. It shaped my character and allowed me to experience the incredible diversity of our nation.

John Aguiar: Wing Commander, as someone who has always been passionate about encouraging the youth of Goa to serve the nation, I must ask: what is your specific advice to the young students in our state who may be hesitant about choosing the defense forces as a career?

Wg Cdr Neha Marathe: My message to the youth of Goa is simple: Do not be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. Often, we choose the "safe" corporate path because it feels familiar, but the Indian Armed Forces offer a life that no other profession can match. It is not just a "job"—it is a calling.

To the young boys and girls in our schools and colleges, I say: Goa has a proud history of contribution, and we need more of our bright minds in the uniform. Whether you are from Margao, Panaji, or the smallest village, the IAF provides a level playing field where only your merit and dedication matter. It turned a young girl’s dream into a lifetime of purpose, and it can do the same for you. Don't just watch the aircraft from afar; aim to fly them or maintain the technology that protects our skies. Choose a career that gives you wings and the honor of serving the motherland. The discipline and leadership you gain will stay with you forever, regardless of where life takes you.

John Aguiar: That is a powerful appeal, Neha. It has been an absolute honor to track your journey from the daughter of a dear classmate to a protector of our nation’s skies. Thank you for your service and for sharing your story with us.

Wg Cdr Neha Marathe: Thank you, John uncle. It was truly a pleasure.