Centre takes over 39.5-acre Air Force sports complex at Race Course
The Indian Air Force has handed over the Lok Kalyan Marg property to the Land and Development Office for potential public or strategic use.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has handed over the 39.5-acre sports complex at Race Course Air Force Station on Lok Kalyan Marg to the Land and Development Office (L&DO), according to reports by The Times of India and The New Indian Express.
The property, which includes a golf course, swimming pool, gym, and restaurants, was transferred on an "as is where is" basis. The complex was sealed on October 28, according to The Indian Express.
A joint survey will be conducted by the Defence Estate Office, the IAF, and the L&DO to determine the exact boundaries and examine any variations in measurements. Officials stated the move is part of a larger scheme for the efficient use of prime land for public and strategic purposes.
The handover follows requests from the IAF to reconsider the decision. The Indian Express reported that a source claimed the move would affect the morale of personnel who train there regularly. The New Indian Express noted that then-IAF chief Air Chief Marshal A.P.
Singh raised the matter with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh before his retirement.
The L&DO has been reclaiming several land parcels near the residence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. This includes the 15.2-acre Jaipur Polo Ground, the 53-acre Delhi Race Club, and the 27.3-acre Delhi Gymkhana Club, which has been ordered to vacate.
The government has not released an official statement regarding the specific purpose or future usage of the sports complex land.