Air Marshal B Manikantan, PVSM, AVSM, VM, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Central Air Command, undertook a two-day visit to forward areas in the Kumaon Sector to assess operational readiness along the high-altitude Himalayan frontier.
During the visit, the Air Marshal reviewed preparedness measures, infrastructure, and coordination mechanisms required for sustained operations in challenging terrain and extreme climatic conditions. He interacted with personnel deployed in forward locations to gain firsthand insights into operational challenges and readiness levels.
Air Marshal Manikantan commended the Panchshul Brigade for their professionalism, resilience, and unwavering vigilance in safeguarding the nation’s borders. He lauded the troops’ commitment to maintaining a high state of alertness and operational effectiveness in one of the most demanding environments.
The visit reaffirmed the Indian Air Force’s focus on jointness, preparedness, and continuous capability enhancement to ensure robust air support and seamless coordination in high-altitude operations along the Himalayan frontier.
