Ex-air chief asked government not to take over IAF sports complex
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh urged the defence minister to protect land at the Race Course Air Force Station.
Outgoing Air Chief Marshal AP Singh requested Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to maintain Indian Air Force (IAF) control over prime land at the Race Course Air Force Station, according to a report by Hindustan Times. The request was made on October 26, five days before his retirement on October 31.
The request concerns approximately 40 acres of land housing the Air Force Sports Complex (AFSC) near the Prime Minister's residence. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has been working to reclaim land in the area, including the Gymkhana Club and Jaipur Polo Ground.
In his letter, AP Singh cited operational needs and the various facilities located at the station. The site provides accommodation for married and unmarried personnel, training areas for airmen and Agniveervayus, a medical centre, a school, and security infrastructure.
The station also supports Air Headquarters and more than 5,000 personnel. It is tasked with countering unmanned aerial system (UAS) threats during activities coordinated by the Delhi Integrated Air Defence Centre (DIADC).
The abrupt closure of the sports complex last month led to the cancellation of a farewell golf event for the outgoing chief. The Land and Development Office under MoHUA has completed a survey of the complex, which is currently not in use.
The new IAF chief, Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, took charge on Sunday. He stated that he would personally focus on the welfare, safety, and professional excellence of all air force personnel.