Op Sindoor demonstrated decisive role of air power as primary responder: Air Chief

“Looking ahead, he stressed on the importance of indigenisation, R&D, jointness and synergy to strengthen future capabilities. Addressing the students he exhorted them to work together as team without any divides,” the statement added.

The event was organised by the Air Force Association (North Zone) branch, in collaboration with 12 Wing, AF to reflect on the enduring legacy of Air Cmde Mehar Singh.

Air Marshal Sukhchain Singh (Retd), president of the Air Force Association (North Zone) spoke about the genesis of establishing the memorial talk series at Air Force Station, Chandigarh. “The Air Force Association is committed to promoting awareness of the rich history and heritage of the Indian Air Force and fostering a sense of patriotism and national pride. The lecture series will be an annual event to foster professional thought, reflection and dialogue on national and strategic issues related to air power,” he said.

Anchit Gupta, a historian specialising in the Indian Air Force, vividly covered Air Cmde Mehar Singh’s achievements and contribution to the operational status of the then fledgling Air Force. Air Marshal Tejbir Singh DG (I&S) delivered the first memorial talk that dwelled on the IAF airlift capability journey from the days of Air Cmde Mehar Singh to the present day and plans for the future.

The nephew of Air Cmde Mehar Singh, Col Dharambir Singh Khara (Retd) who was merely two years when former died in a tragic air crash was facilitated by the Air Marshal Sukhchain Singh (Retd).

Air Marshal Jagjeet Singh(Retd), Senior Vice President Air Force Association presented Ex Sergeant Sanjeev Kumar Goel the documents of an adaptive wheelchair which is customised to his specific needs. He had meet with an accident in 2019 in which he lost both his legs. Despite this he serves humanity through blood donation and supports accident victims, veterans, and the underprivileged through several social and philanthropic organisations.