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Created: 29 August 2015

UDHAMPUR: Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha, Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee (COSC) and Chief of the Air Staff (CAS) delivered an inaugural address on the occasion of Air Marshal Subroto Memorial Oration organised at Institute of Aeronautical Medicines (IAM).  In his address, the Air Chief highlighted the important components of IAF transformation in ‘HR development’. 

Earlier the Air Chief had addressed this forum on technological advances and the role of aero space medicines specialists in enhancing operational efficiency and flight safety.  He found it heartening to know the field trials on various counter measures are under way and active work is being undertaken to find out objective methods of detecting and combating fatigue. 

Since this year’s theme is on Women in Aviation, Air Chief Marshal Raha said “women have already made significant contribution across the aerospace spectrum be it commercial, military or space related.  Women aviators like Kalpana Chawla, Sunita William have left their mark in the history of aviation and are an inspiration to many.  Going back in history he said – Flight Cadet Harita Kaur Deol was the country’s first women military pilot to do a solo.  History was made then and it was a momentous occasion for women of India and the Indian Air Force. 

Ever since then we have come to a long way and today we have over 1500 women officers in the IAF and nearly 100 women pilots in the helicopter and transport fleet.  They have flown IL-76, Mi-8 and one of them is a member of Sarang Aerobatic Team.  All the other branches are closely associated with flying.  All these officers have served the IAF with courage, professionalism, pride and enthusiasm that has made them very valuable members of ‘Team IAF’. In his concluding address to the distinguished audience of professionals from the field of medicine and aviation.  He said that IAF’s mission is to build a modern, flexible and credible aerospace power with full spectrum capability to safeguard our national interest.