Ex-Air Chief Urged Government To Stop Takeover Of Delhi IAF Sports Complex

Days before his retirement, outgoing Air Chief Marshal AP Singh wrote to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh to protect the Indian Air Force's control over prime land at the Race Course Air Force Station. The letter followed a move by the ministry of housing and urban affairs to reclaim a sprawling 40-acre sports complex within the station, near the Prime Minister's residence. The reclamation forced the cancellation of the outgoing air chief's farewell golf event. The sports complex includes a golf course, guest cottages, a swimming pool, a fitness centre, and restaurants. Officials said the land houses vital facilities supporting Air Headquarters and more than 5,000 personnel. These include housing, training areas for airmen and Agniveervayus, a medical centre, a school, and a unit-run canteen. The station also handles anti-drone security tasks for Delhi activities.

Context

Defence land management in central Delhi often involves complex coordination between military needs and urban development plans by civilian ministries. The Race Course Air Force Station has served as a key administrative nerve centre for the air force since the 1940s.