- Event pays glowing tribute to Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, Param Vir Chakra Awardee
- Over 1,000 participants join to celebrate fitness, team spirit, and the IAF’s legacy of valour
NE DEFENCE BUREAU
AHMEDABAD, NOV 2
In a resounding display of patriotism, fitness, and unity, the Headquarter South Western Air Command (HQ SWAC), Gandhinagar, successfully organised the first edition of the ‘Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon’ on Sunday, 2 November 2025. The event was held to commemorate the valour and supreme sacrifice of Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, the only Indian Air Force officer to be awarded the Param Vir Chakra (PVC) — the nation’s highest military honour.
The marathon, held under the inspiring theme of ‘Run–Soar–Inspire’, featured three categories — 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km — and witnessed the participation of over 1,000 Air Warriors, their families, school students, and citizens of Gandhinagar. The run was flagged off by Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, SYSM, PVSM, AVSM, VM, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C), South Western Air Command, from the Vayu Shakti Nagar campus at 0530 hours.
Participants showcased immense enthusiasm, discipline, and sportsmanship, reflecting the spirit of camaraderie and commitment that defines the Indian Air Force. The event concluded at 0930 hours with a prize distribution ceremony, where winners were felicitated for their outstanding performance.
Addressing the gathering, Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor highlighted the crucial role of physical fitness in military and civilian life alike, urging everyone to adopt a regular fitness routine to remain physically robust and mentally agile. He praised the collective efforts of the participants and organisers for making the event a grand success, symbolising both the IAF’s ethos and India’s growing culture of health and discipline.
The Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon served as a fitting tribute to Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, remembered for his unmatched bravery and love for sports. His heroic actions during the 1971 Indo-Pak War, when he made the supreme sacrifice defending the Srinagar Air Base, continue to inspire generations of air warriors.
Through this landmark event, the South Western Air Command not only honoured the legacy of a national hero but also reinforced the Indian Air Force’s unwavering commitment to fitness, teamwork, and patriotism — embodying the spirit of the sky warriors who run with purpose, soar with courage, and inspire a nation.
