Improvement in work ethos must, IAF commander

NEW DELHI - Air Marshal D.C. Kumaria, the new chief of the Indian Air Force’s Delhi-based Western Air Command (WAC), has stressed upon all-round improvement in the work ethos of the air warriors and said measures would be taken to better their and their families’ quality of life.

In his first interaction with personnel of the command Saturday, Kumaria put forth his vision for the command, that’s termed the “sword arm” of the IAF because it is the largest and the most vital operational command.

Extending his greetings for the New Year to all the personnel of the Western Air Command, Kumaria said: “WAC has earned an enviable reputation for achieving all assigned tasks effectively, both in conflict situations as well as peacetime operations.”

“We owe a debt of gratitude to the previous commanders and air warriors who toiled tirelessly to earn the trust of the nation, and those we support, by meeting all the commitments irrespective of the odds”, he said, according to a statement issued Sunday.

He said he would continue to endeavour in enhancing the combat potential of Western Air Command. “We will work as a team and synergise our efforts to succeed in this objective.”

With a focus on the “primary aim of achieving operational efficiency”, he also stressed upon the “all round improvement in the work ethos, and quality of life of air warriors and their families”.

“In future, we are likely to witness significant changes with the acquisition of new assets and force multipliers. Every resource given to us must be optimised and put to best use. I call upon the Men in Blue to rededicate themselves towards achieving the goals and tasks of the Western Air Command.

“While doing so, we need to be conscious of flight safety. It is imperative to ensure meticulous upkeep and utilisation of our assets, so that our combat potential is never lowered,” he added.

Kumaria succeeds Air Marshal N.A.K. Browne, who Saturday took over as the new IAF vice chief.