Air Chief Marshal AP Singh retires after 42 years; golf farewell cancelled amid land row

NEW DELHI: Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh, who led the Indian Air Force (IAF) through Operation Sindoor, is retiring on Saturday, October 31, after 42 years of service. His departure comes amid controversy over the sudden closure of the Air Force Sports Complex near the Prime Minister's official residence in New Delhi, which resulted in the cancellation of his traditional farewell golf outing.

The complex on Lok Kalyan Marg was closed on October 28 until further notice. The facility, located within the Race Course Air Force Station, includes a golf course, swimming pool, gym and other recreational facilities used by serving and retired defence personnel.

The closure came as the Union government stepped up efforts to reclaim government land in the area through the Land and Development Office under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. The stated land-reclamation exercise has also involved other prominent properties in the vicinity, including the Delhi Race Club and Jaipur Polo Ground.

The cancellation of the golf outing, traditionally known as the 'golfing-out', drew attention because the event is customarily organised for outgoing Air Chiefs, who serve as patrons-in-chief of the golf course.

However, Singh has been accorded formal farewell honours. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh hosted a farewell reception for him on October 26 and acknowledged his leadership and contribution to strengthening the IAF's operational capabilities, including his role during Operation Sindoor. Singh also called on President Droupadi Murmu on Friday.

On Saturday, the IAF is scheduled to accord him a ceremonial guard of honour at Air Force Station, New Delhi, following a wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial.

Singh took over as Chief of the Air Staff on September 30, 2024. During his tenure, he led the force through Operation Sindoor in May 2025 and spoke publicly about operational preparedness, aircraft availability and the need to strengthen India's air power.

Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, currently serving as Vice Chief of the Air Staff, will succeed Singh as the 29th Chief of the Air Staff from the afternoon of October 31. Air Marshal Inderpal Singh Walia has separately been appointed Vice Chief of the Air Staff with effect from November 1.

With inputs from media reports.