ITANAGAR, Jun 4: Governor Lt Gen (Retd) KT Parnaik on Thursday visited the Headquarters of the Eastern Air Command (EAC) of the Indian Air Force at Shillong and held detailed discussions with Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia on issues concerning air connectivity, border infrastructure, disaster response and the welfare of the people of Arunachal Pradesh.
The Governor, who is in Shillong for the 73rd Plenary Session of the North Eastern Council, had a cordial interaction with the Air Marshal and discussed matters of strategic and developmental importance for the frontier state.
During the meeting, the Governor expressed his appreciation for the significant contribution of the Eastern Air Command in serving the people of Arunachal Pradesh, particularly those residing in remote and inaccessible areas.
He commended the Indian Air Force for its crucial role in carrying out ration-dropping operations, airlifting essential supplies, evacuating patients during medical emergencies and providing timely assistance during natural disasters and other emergency situations.
He noted that such support has often served as a lifeline for communities facing connectivity challenges due to the state's rugged terrain and difficult geographical conditions.
Highlighting the strategic importance of Arunachal Pradesh, Parnaik stressed the need to further strengthen the network of Advanced Landing Grounds (ALGs) across the state. He observed that well-maintained ALGs are vital not only for national security but also for disaster response, improved connectivity and the development of border areas.
He also appreciated the initiative of organizing the Inter-Advanced Landing Ground Football Tournament, describing it as an effective platform for fostering goodwill and strengthening bonds between Air Warriors and local communities. He expressed happiness over the enthusiastic participation of local youth and hoped that similar sporting events in other disciplines would be organized regularly to encourage talent and promote community engagement.
The AOC-in-C assured the Governor of the IAF’s continued support to the people of Arunachal and reaffirmed the Eastern Air Command’s commitment to humanitarian assistance, emergency response, enhanced connectivity, and national security.