Air Marshal PV Shivanand, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C), South Western Air Command (SWAC), Indian Air Force, addressed the 82nd Staff Course and permanent staff at the Defence Services Staff College (DSSC), Wellington.
During his interaction, Air Marshal Shivanand shared valuable insights into operational planning, jointness and integrated military operations. He highlighted the Indian Air Force’s ability to respond with speed, agility and precision to emerging challenges in an increasingly dynamic strategic environment.
The engagement also underscored the importance of integrated operational planning and seamless coordination among the three Services to meet evolving security challenges and strengthen India’s overall defence preparedness.
Tribute to a Param Vir Chakra Hero:
A formal ceremony was also held during the visit to commemorate the exemplary courage and sacrifice of Flying Officer Nirmaljit Singh Sekhon, who was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra for his actions during the 1971 Indo-Pak war.
Air Marshal Shivanand unveiled a replica of the Folland Gnat flown by Flying Officer Sekhon while defending the skies over Srinagar during the war. Despite being heavily outnumbered, Sekhon engaged Pakistani Sabre aircraft and succeeded in shooting down two enemy fighters before making the supreme sacrifice.
The replica will now be displayed at the historic Somnath Foyer at DSSC, serving as a lasting tribute to the courage, determination and indomitable fighting spirit of one of the Indian Air Force’s most celebrated heroes.
The installation is also intended to inspire future generations of military leaders undergoing training at DSSC, reminding them of the values of courage, leadership, sacrifice and commitment to duty exemplified by Flying Officer Nirmaljit Singh Sekhon.
