In a high-level meeting aimed at enhancing national security and regional development, Air Marshal Surat Singh, the Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Eastern Air Command, met Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt Gen (Retd) K T Parnaik at Raj Bhavan on Monday. The discussions revolved around strategic security priorities, defence preparedness, and disaster response, particularly in the context of Arunachal Pradesh’s sensitive geography and weather challenges. The meeting, held in Itanagar and confirmed through an official statement released on Tuesday, underscores the increasing importance of the Northeastern frontier state in India’s broader security architecture. Arunachal Pradesh shares a significant border with China, and the region’s strategic relevance has grown steadily over the past decade amid evolving geopolitical dynamics.
Governor Parnaik, himself a decorated former Army officer, expressed appreciation for the strong presence and continuous efforts of the Indian Armed Forces across the state. He highlighted the critical role played by the Indian Air Force (IAF) in not only securing India’s territorial integrity but also in contributing to developmental and humanitarian efforts, especially during natural calamities such as landslides and floods that frequently impact the region. Recognising the Indian Air Force’s operational role in tough terrain and extreme weather conditions, the Governor encouraged deeper engagement with the local population. He specifically urged the Air Marshal to intensify outreach programmes aimed at motivating young people—particularly those living near Advance Landing Grounds (ALGs)—to consider careers in the armed forces.“Such initiatives will go a long way in instilling discipline, patriotism, and a sense of purpose among our youth,” Governor Parnaik reportedly said. He added that involving local youth in the national security framework not only boosts morale in frontier regions but also contributes to a stronger civil-military bond in border states like Arunachal Pradesh.
Air Marshal Singh, who commands the Indian Air Force’s critical Eastern Air Command headquartered in Shillong, responded positively to the Governor’s suggestions. He assured the state’s constitutional head of the IAF’s steadfast commitment to the people of Arunachal Pradesh—not just in matters of defence but also in supporting disaster relief, connectivity, and development efforts.“The Indian Air Force stands ready at all times to respond to both defence needs and humanitarian emergencies in the Northeast,” Singh stated. He acknowledged the strategic challenges posed by the region’s rugged terrain, complex border dynamics, and climate-induced disasters, and reaffirmed the IAF’s preparedness and capability in dealing with such multifaceted scenarios.
