End of an Era: Air Marshal PK Barbora Passes Away

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Air Marshal PK Barbora breathed his last in New Delhi

In a sad moment for the nation and for the people of Assam, Air Marshal (Retired) Pranab Kumar Barbora passed away. He breathed his last in New Delhi. A distinguished officer, he was the former Vice Chief of the Indian Air Force and had an illustrious career spanning over four decades.

Air-Marshal-P-K-Borbora-Passes away
End of an Era: Air Marshal PK Barbora Passes Away

Early Life and Career:

Born on December 10, 1950, in Shillong, Air Marshal Barbora was commissioned into the Indian Air Force as a Fighter Pilot on June 13, 1970. He was a part of the 104th course and had over 3,500 hours of accident-free flying to his credit. He was a qualified Flying Instructor and a Fighter Combat Leader.

Significant Contributions:

Air Marshal Barbora was a veteran of the 1971 war and held various prestigious positions throughout his career. He served as the Air Attaché at the Embassy of India in Moscow and was instrumental in the MiG-21 Bis upgrade and the SU-30 Mk-I program. He was also the Assistant Chief of Integrated Defence Staff and held the position of Assistant Chief of Air Staff (Inspection) at Air Headquarters.

Air Marshal P K Borbora Pas 1
Air Marshal PK Barbora

Awards and Honors:

He was a recipient of the Param Vishisht Seva Medal (PVSM) and Vayu Sena Medal (VM). The Vayu Sena Medal was awarded for his professional acumen and devotion to duty, particularly during his command of an operational squadron.

Final Years and Legacy:

He was promoted and appointed as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Air Command on 2nd Apr 2007. He retired on December 31, 2010, and was the first personality hailing from the Northeast to reach such a high post in the Armed Forces. His last appointment was as the Vice Chief of Air Staff. His demise leaves a void in the Indian Air Force, which will be hard to fill.

Air Marshal (Retd) PK Barbora was a man of exceptional integrity and professional skill. His contributions to the Indian Air Force and the nation at large will be remembered for years to come. The nation mourns the loss of this gallant officer.

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