Second Officer Kalyani Sen, born circa 1917, was a pioneering figure in the history of the Indian Navy. She served as a Second Officer of the Women’s Royal Indian Naval Service (WRINS), which was a section of the Women’s Auxiliary Corps (India) WAC (I). WRINS played a crucial role during the Second World War, and initially, its ranks mainly comprised Anglo-Indians. However, by 1945, over 70% of WRINS members were Indian nationals, with Kalyani Sen being one of these early Indian pioneers.

In 1945, Kalyani Sen achieved a remarkable milestone by becoming the first Indian service woman to visit the United Kingdom. This visit was at the invitation of Britain’s Admiralty, reflecting the significant recognition of her abilities and the role of Indian women in the military services at that time. During her visit to the UK, she conducted a comparative study of training and administration in the Women’s Royal Naval Service (WRNS). This opportunity not only highlighted her personal accomplishments but also represented a significant step in strengthening military ties and knowledge exchange between India and the United Kingdom.

Kalyani Sen’s role in WRINS and her visit to the UK were instrumental in showcasing the capabilities and contributions of Indian women in the armed forces during a critical period in history. Her service and achievements paved the way for greater involvement and recognition of women in the Indian Navy and the armed forces in general.