NE NEWS SERVICE
CHANDIGARH, MAY 8
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the first-of-its-kind Indian Air Force (IAF) Heritage Centre here on Monday, officials said. The Centre has been set up under a memorandum of understanding between the Union Territory of Chandigarh and the IAF which was signed last year.
Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Banwarilal Purohit, Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari and Chandigarh MP Kirron Kher were also present on the occasion.
The IAF chief had visited the Indian Air Force Heritage Centre last month to review its progress.
Spread over 17,000 square feet, this is the first heritage centre of the IAF and depicts its role in various wars, including in 1965, 1971 and the Kargil war, and the Balakot air strike through murals and memorabilia.
The Centre, an embodiment of IAF’s rich history and legacy, houses a collection of artefacts, murals and 3D dioramas, showcasing the evolution of the force since its inception. It displays the heroic deeds of the IAF and the country’s technological progress in aircraft/equipment.
One of the highlights of the Centre is the array of simulators that allows visitors to replicate the thrill of flying iconic aircraft in the IAF’s inventory and gives them a chance to get a taste of what it feels to be a pilot. The Centre, now open to the public, also houses enclosures dedicated to the war campaigns in which IAF had participated. These provide a unique opportunity for visitors to learn about the crucial role the IAF has played in defending the nation.
Its exhibits will be a source of inspiration for future generations and will showcase the indomitable spirit of the Indian Air Force, officials said.
PM lauds India’s first Indian Air Force Heritage Centre
This is a commendable effort, which will further highlight the rich contribution of our Air Force to our nation. https://t.co/yGX17zTgGW
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) May 8, 2023
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has lauded India’s first Indian Air Force Heritage Centre in Chandigarh. Retweeting a tweet by Union Minister for Defence, Shri Rajnath Singh, the Prime Minister said; “This is a commendable effort, which will further highlight the rich contribution of our Air Force to our nation.”
