Eastern Air Command Air Marshal S P Dharkar called on Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lt. Gen. (Retd) K.T. Parnaik on Monday at Raj Bhavan, Itanagar. The Eastern Air Command Arunachal meeting focused on the state’s growing strategic importance, infrastructure development, and the evolving security scenario along the India-China border.
The discussion comes at a time when the northeastern region is witnessing rapid infrastructure growth under central initiatives, including increased defence preparedness.
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Security and Border Infrastructure Top Agenda
During the meeting, Air Marshal Dharkar briefed the Governor about the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) readiness in the region. He also shared details of the command’s operational strategies along Arunachal’s eastern frontier, which shares a long and sensitive boundary with China.
Governor Parnaik appreciated the Air Force’s efforts in safeguarding national borders and maintaining high alertness in forward areas. He stressed the importance of civil-military synergy, especially in states like Arunachal where terrain and logistics demand close coordination.
They also discussed the impact of border infrastructure projects and the necessity to improve air connectivity for both strategic and civilian purposes.
Importance of Eastern Air Command in Northeast
The Eastern Air Command (EAC), headquartered in Shillong, oversees operations across the eastern region, including Arunachal Pradesh. It plays a critical role in maintaining aerial defence along India’s northeastern borders.
In recent years, the EAC has strengthened its logistics and airlift capacity across forward air bases in Arunachal. These include advanced landing grounds (ALGs) such as Walong, Mechuka, Pasighat, and Ziro, which have significantly improved response capabilities in border areas.
The Eastern Air Command Arunachal operational focus also aligns with India’s broader defence strategy to enhance deterrence in the region.
Emphasis on Development Alongside Security
While security dominated the agenda, the two leaders also spoke about the state’s development goals. Governor Parnaik underlined the importance of building dual-use infrastructure—projects that serve both civilian and defence purposes.
He also called for improved coordination between central forces and state agencies to ensure that local communities benefit from increased security presence. Air Marshal Dharkar echoed these sentiments and said that the IAF remains committed to supporting developmental efforts wherever possible.
Moreover, they discussed the potential for air evacuation services, education outreach in border villages, and local youth engagement through defence recruitment drives.
Regional Significance and Future Collaboration
The visit by the Eastern Air Command chief reflects growing attention to Arunachal’s role in national security. In recent months, the region has hosted multiple high-level visits from defence and political leaders.
Governor Parnaik, a former Army commander himself, has frequently engaged with defence establishments to ensure smooth coordination across departments. This ongoing collaboration strengthens both the operational and humanitarian aspects of security management in Arunachal.
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