‘Testament to courage, dedication of all those who have served’: Rajnath Singh inaugurates IAF Heritage Centre

In his inaugural address, the defence minister called the Heritage Centre a testament to the courage and dedication of all those who have served in the IAF and said it was a tribute to their sacrifice and a reminder of their invaluable contribution in protecting the nation.

“The IAF has a rich heritage and it is our responsibility to preserve and showcase it. This centre will become an important means of preserving the history of the IAF and motivating the youth to imbibe the values of the Armed Forces,” Rajnath said.

He recalled the contribution of the IAF in the 1948 war, Goa Liberation War of 1961, 1962, 1965, 1971 and Kargil wars, which showcased the force’s strength, commitment and professionalism. On the 1971 war, he said the jointmanship, integration and commitment showcased by the three services during the war were unprecedented and extraordinary. He added the war was not fought for any land or power, but for humanity and democracy.

Dedicated to the nation India’s first IAF Heritage Centre in Chandigarh today. This Centre is a testament to the courage and dedication of all those who have served in the IAF and a reminder of their invaluable contributions in protecting the nation. pic.twitter.com/7qfUzoCopg

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) May 8, 2023

“It was a proof that India believes in ‘Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere’ and it is our duty to stand against any kind of injustice,” he said.

“Winning the war on the strength of our strategies and not imposing any kind of political control there symbolised India’s strengths as well as its values and cultural generosity,” he said, adding that the Centre will be a reflection of this valour and commitment.

Singh was accompanied by Chandigarh Union Territory (UT) Administrator Banwarilal Purohit, Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhari, Member of Parliament (MP) Kirron Kher and other officers of the administration. Apart from this, a one-foot wall that has pictures of 58 vintage and retired aircraft will serve as a visual treat to visitors.

Other projects

The Defence Minister later laid the foundation stone for the Extension of Kurukshetra Boys Hostel at Punjab Engineering College (PEC) and for the Hostel Block in the Government College.

He also inaugurated a gaushala at the Raipur Kalan. Spread in 3.86 acres, the gaushala has a capacity to accommodate nearly 1,000 cows.