Panaji, 10 August: Indian Air Force officer Fernando D’Costa, a native of Dramapur in the Chinchinim area of South Goa, has been promoted from the rank of Wing Commander to Group Captain. The promotion reportedly took effect at the beginning of 2026.

 

The elevation marks an important milestone in D’Costa’s career in the Indian Air Force and has brought pride to his family, his native village and Goa. Group Captain is a senior commissioned-officer rank in the IAF, positioned above Wing Commander and immediately below Air Commodore, according to the official IAF rank structure⁠

Apart from his professional responsibilities in the Air Force, D’Costa is known in Goa for encouraging young people to consider careers in the Armed Forces. While serving as a Wing Commander, he was closely involved in IAF recruitment and awareness programmes conducted across the state.

In 2019, D’Costa helped publicise special Air Force recruitment rallies for Goan candidates. Addressing prospective applicants, he spoke about the professional opportunities, training, educational facilities and sense of pride associated with serving in the IAF.

During one recruitment campaign, he highlighted that Goan representation in the Air Force was comparatively low and urged more eligible young people to participate in the selection process. He also conducted orientation programmes at educational institutions and interacted with students and NCC cadets.

“Serving in the Air Force is larger than life, and you get social status, respect and the esteem of your countrymen,” D’Costa was quoted as saying during a 2019 recruitment campaign.

He was also associated with recruitment initiatives organised through the Airmen Selection Centre in Jodhpur. His efforts included bringing recruitment opportunities closer to Goan candidates and explaining the physical, written and psychological stages of the selection process.

Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant had publicly acknowledged D’Costa’s contribution in 2019, thanking the then Wing Commander for guiding young people ahead of an IAF recruitment rally.

His promotion has now been highlighted in Goa through congratulatory reports describing him as an inspiration to young Goans aspiring to serve in the defence forces.

D’Costa’s rise to the rank of Group Captain represents both a significant professional achievement and a proud moment for Dramapur, Chinchinim and Goa. His career and outreach efforts demonstrate how military service can be combined with mentoring and motivating the next generation.