Notes Class 10 Chapter 1.3 Kumarbharati English Maharashtra Board

On Wings of Courage

Introduction

The chapter “On Wings of Courage” celebrates the life and achievements of Air Force Marshal Arjan Singh, a legendary figure in India’s military history. It highlights his remarkable journey as a fearless pilot, exceptional leader, and the only officer to attain the rank of Marshal of the Indian Air Force (IAF), equivalent to a five-star Field Marshal in the Army. The chapter details his contributions to transforming the IAF into one of the world’s most powerful air forces, especially during the 1965 Indo-Pak War. Through his story, students learn about courage, leadership, dedication, and the importance of serving the nation. The chapter also includes activities like vocabulary exercises, homophones/homographs, and questions to deepen understanding.

Detailed Notes

1. Early Life and Education

• Date of Birth: April 15, 1919.
• Place of Birth: Lyalpur (now Faisalabad, Pakistan).
• Education: Completed education in Montgomery (now Sahiwal, Pakistan).
• Early Interest: Showed interest in aviation at a young age, leading to his selection for pilot training.

2. Entry into Indian Air Force

• Initial Training: Selected for the Empire Pilot Training Course at Royal Air Force (RAF) Cranwell, UK, in 1938 at age 19.
• First Assignment: Commissioned as a pilot and joined No. 1 RIAF Squadron, flying Westland Wapiti biplanes in the North-Western Frontier Province.
• Aircraft Flown: Flew over 60 types of aircraft, including biplanes, Hawker Hurricanes, Gnats, Vampires, and transport planes like Super Constellation.
• Flying Currency: Maintained up-to-date flying skills throughout his career, even as Air Chief.

3. Key Roles and Promotions in the IAF

1944 – Squadron Leader: Promoted at age 25 and led a squadron against the Japanese in the Arakan Campaign.

• Provided close air support during the Imphal Campaign.
• Assisted Allied Forces’ advance to Yangoon (Rangoon).
• Awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) in 1944, the first Indian pilot to receive it, for his bravery.

1947 – Fly-Past Leader: On August 15, 1947, led a fly-past of over 100 IAF aircraft over the Red Fort, Delhi, marking India’s independence.

1949 – Air Commodore: Took over as Air Officer Commanding (AOC) of an operational command (later Western Air Command).

• Longest tenure as AOC: 1949-1952 and 1957-1961.

1962 – Deputy Chief of Air Staff: Appointed during the Indo-China War.

1963 – Vice Chief of Air Staff: Took on higher leadership roles.

1964 – Air Marshal and Chief of Air Staff (CAS): Took control of the IAF, preparing it for new challenges.

1965 – Leadership in Indo-Pak War: Led the IAF with courage against a better-equipped Pakistani Air Force.

• Overcame restrictions on full use of air power.
• Awarded the Padma Vibhushan for his leadership.

1966 – First Air Chief Marshal: IAF’s CAS rank was upgraded, and Arjan Singh became the first Air Chief Marshal.

2002 – Marshal of the Air Force: Honored with the highest rank, the only IAF officer to achieve this five-star rank.

4. Contributions to the Indian Air Force

• Transformation of IAF: Played a major role in making the IAF the fourth largest air force globally.
• 1965 Indo-Pak War: Led the IAF to victory despite challenges, denying success to Pakistan’s air force.
• Training and Exercises: Commanded the joint air exercise “Shiksha” with IAF, RAF, and RAAF.
• Inspiration: Visited forward bases, flew with squadrons, and motivated personnel throughout his tenure.
• Legacy: His leadership is considered monumental, shaping the IAF into a potent and modern force.

5. Personality Traits

• Fearless Pilot: Flew diverse aircraft with skill and bravery.
• Exceptional Leader: Described as firm, efficient, and unexcitable by Defence Minister Y B Chavan.
• Hardworking: Worked assiduously with attention to detail.
• Knowledgeable: Had deep knowledge of air power and applied it effectively.
• Man of Few Words: Known for being reserved but impactful.
• Astute: Showed sharp intelligence in leading the IAF.
• Inspirational: Motivated IAF personnel through his actions and presence.

6. Awards and Honors

• Distinguished Flying Cross (DFC) (1944): For bravery in the Arakan and Imphal Campaigns.
• Padma Vibhushan (1965): For leadership during the Indo-Pak War.
• Marshal of the Air Force (2002): First and only IAF officer to receive this rank.

7. Post-Retirement Roles

• Retirement: August 1969.
• Ambassador to Switzerland: Served after retirement.
• Lieutenant Governor of Delhi: From December 1989 to December 1990.

8. Key Terms and Meanings

• Potent: Powerful and effective.
• Monumental: Of great importance, enormous.
• Epitome: A perfect example.
• Assiduously: Working hard with careful attention to detail.
• Commending: Officially praising.
• AOC-in-C: Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief.
• Flying Currency: Up-to-date flying skills and experience.
• Constraints: Restrictions.
• Astute: Sharp and intelligent.
• Forward Bases: Secured military positions near the front line.