Arjan Singh, MIAF

Arjan Singh, Marshal of the Indian Air Force, who passed away last Saturday was much more than a soldier. His elevation as the first Sikh to head the Air Force was a profound statement in itself, reflective of the easy confidence of the emerging Indian state as also a robust reaffirmation of the Indian armed forces as the most secular institution in the Republic. It need be recalled that it was the time when the post-Nehru India was still trying to recover its pace and rhythm. Soon after his appointment as the Air Chief, the young Indian State found itself sucked into an unwanted and unnecessary war with Pakistan. Arjan Singh’s calm and competent stewardship of the Air Force not only put paid to Ayub Khan’s gross miscalculations, he and the men under his command helped the nation recover from the humiliation of the 1962 war.

Personal bravery as a pilot, leading his men from the front, understanding and negotiating the needs of higher command, building a rapport with the bureaucrats and political leaders, gaining their trust, inducing in them a confidence, all came together when he led the Air Force in the 1965 war. He was leadership — inspiring, daring and dazzling — personified. Air Chief Arjan Singh’s brilliant stewardship raised the bar for military leadership in the 1971 conflict.

After retiring at 50, Arjan Singh changed into a fine public servant. He served as the Lt Governor of Delhi, as also a diplomat. He transformed himself into a concerned citizen and became a wise elder, whose advice and wisdom were sought by successive governments. Till his very last he remained a watchful observer of the ex-servicemen’s interests. That he would sell his personal property to fund a Trust for Air Force ex-servicemen was a natural step in a life anchored in personal probity and commitment to public welfare. While the nation mourns the loss of this outstanding son of Punjab, a great soldier and a patriot extraordinary, the story of his life would continue to be an inspiration for our nation in times of confusion and conflict. RIP MIAF Arjan Singh DFC.