Air Chief Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, Chief of the Air Staff, marked Diwali by visiting a forward Indian Air Force station, where he celebrated the festival with Air Warriors and Agniveervayu personnel deployed on frontline duties.

During the visit, he interacted with the stationed personnel, exchanged sweets and conveyed his festive greetings. He praised their dedication and professionalism in safeguarding India's airspace, highlighting the sacrifices made by those serving far from their families during the festive season.

The Indian Air Force said the Air Chief continued Diwali celebrations with frontline personnel by spending time with Air Warriors and Agniveervayu members deployed in forward areas. The force noted that his visit recognised their steadfast commitment to national security despite the demands of operational duty.

In a message shared by the Indian Air Force, the service stated: "Interacting with the personnel and exchanging sweets, he conveyed his festive greetings and appreciated their unwavering commitment to keeping the nation's skies secure, even as duty keeps them away from their families on this auspicious occasion."

The Air Force also underscored the ethos of service reflected in the visit, stating: "Duty above all. Commitment beyond compare."

The Diwali engagement came shortly after Air Chief Marshal Dixit assumed office as the 29th Chief of the Air Staff. He took charge at the Parade Ground of Air Force Station New Delhi on Sunday and was accorded a Guard of Honour.

Earlier, he paid tribute to fallen military personnel by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial in New Delhi.

Air Chief Marshal Dixit succeeded Air Chief Marshal A. P. Singh, who retired after completing 42 years of distinguished service to the nation.

A graduate of the National Defence Academy, Air Chief Marshal Dixit was commissioned into the fighter stream of the Indian Air Force on 6 December 1986.

Over a career spanning nearly four decades, he has accumulated extensive experience across operational flying, flight testing, capability development and joint staff assignments, making him one of the Indian Air Force's most experienced senior officers.

His Diwali visit to a frontline air base reaffirmed the importance the service places on maintaining morale among deployed personnel while recognising the dedication of those entrusted with protecting the nation's skies throughout the year.

ANI