Three Farewells Down, One to Go: IAF Chief's Grand Exit
Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh retires tomorrow after a series of high-profile farewells. Learn about his final Guard of Honour and new successor.
The Indian Air Force is preparing for a poignant transition as the outgoing chief, Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, reaches the end of his distinguished career. While some rumors suggested a quiet exit, the reality has been a series of high-profile tributes. The Indian Air Force Chief farewell celebrations have already seen three official events, with one final, ceremonial goodbye scheduled for tomorrow.
A Series of High-Profile Tributes
The farewell process for Air Chief Marshal AP Singh began well before his actual retirement date. Senior officials have clarified that the outgoing chief has already been honored in three distinct official capacities:
- The Ministerial Send-off: On October 26, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hosted an official farewell for the Air Chief before departing for a foreign visit.
- The Commanders' Dinner: On October 27, senior Air Force commanders gathered at the Akash Officers’ Mess, located near the iconic India Gate, to host a farewell dinner in his honor.
- The Headquarters Celebration: On October 28, the Air Headquarters organized a formal farewell party at the Air Force auditorium in Subroto Park.
A Special Flight and a Personal Touch
In a rare and sentimental gesture, the Defence Ministry granted special high-level clearance for a unique flight. Air Chief Marshal AP Singh was permitted to fly with his very first instructor, Wing Commander VS Kochhar, who had retired from the service long ago. Such permissions are seldom granted, as allowing civilians or retired personnel to fly in military aircraft requires stringent approvals from the highest levels of the Defence Ministry.
Addressing the 'Golfing Out' Controversy
The detailed list of official events comes amidst whispers that the Air Chief was being denied a proper send-off. These rumors stemmed from the fact that a traditional "golfing out" event—a staple for retiring officers—could not take place because the land of the Air Force Golf course was taken over by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
However, officials were quick to clarify that the "golfing out" is considered an unofficial farewell. Furthermore, they noted that ACM AP Singh is widely known within the force for his passion for squash rather than golf.
The Final Salute
The climax of the retirement proceedings will occur tomorrow on his final day in office. A ceremonial Guard of Honour will be held at the Air Force Station in New Delhi, strategically located in front of the Prime Minister’s residence at Lok Kalyan Marg.
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh superannuates tomorrow after a tenure of 25 months. As he steps down, the leadership of the skies will pass to Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, who is set to take over as the new Chief of the Air Staff tomorrow.