In the history of the Indian Air Force, there are stories of great battles and major victories. There are also stories of individuals whose courage stood tall even when the odds were overwhelming. Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon belongs firmly to the latter.
He remains the only Indian Air Force officer to be awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest gallantry award, for actions in an air combat role.
Early Life and the Call to Fly
Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon was born in Punjab in 1943. From an early age, he showed a keen interest in flying and military life. Determined and disciplined, he joined the Indian Air Force and trained as a fighter pilot.
He was commissioned as a Flying Officer and posted to a Gnat fighter squadron, a small but highly agile aircraft designed for close combat.
The Situation in December 1971
During the Indo Pakistan War of 1971, Srinagar airfield was a critical strategic asset. Control of this airfield was essential for maintaining air operations in the Kashmir sector.
On 14 December 1971, intelligence indicated an imminent enemy air attack on Srinagar. Despite limited resources and challenging conditions, Indian Air Force personnel remained on high alert.
Flying Officer Sekhon was among those tasked with defending the base.
The Enemy Attack
That morning, multiple enemy fighter aircraft approached Srinagar airfield with the objective of disabling it.
At the time:
- The airfield was vulnerable
- Defensive aircraft availability was limited
- Weather and terrain posed additional challenges
Despite these factors, Flying Officer Sekhon took off alone in his Gnat to intercept the attacking formation.
A Lone Pilot Against the Odds
Facing multiple enemy aircraft, Flying Officer Sekhon engaged them head on.
In a fierce aerial combat:
- He successfully damaged enemy aircraft
- Forced the attackers to break formation
- Disrupted the strike mission against the airfield
Outnumbered and operating under extreme pressure, he continued the engagement until his aircraft was hit.
His Gnat crashed near the airfield. Flying Officer Sekhon was killed in action.
Impact of His Action
Flying Officer Sekhon’s actions achieved far more than a tactical engagement.
By forcing the enemy aircraft to disengage, he:
- Protected the Srinagar airfield from destruction
- Preserved India’s air operations in the region
- Boosted morale across the Indian Air Force
His courage ensured that a critical strategic asset remained operational.
Award of the Param Vir Chakra
For his extraordinary bravery, flying skill, and supreme sacrifice, Flying Officer Sekhon was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra.
His citation highlighted:
- Complete disregard for personal safety
- Determination in the face of overwhelming odds
- Devotion to duty of the highest order
His name became synonymous with air combat courage.
Legacy Within the Indian Air Force
Flying Officer Sekhon’s legacy lives on within the Indian Air Force.
He is remembered as:
- A symbol of courage in aerial warfare
- An example of duty above self
- An inspiration to generations of fighter pilots
Training institutions, memorials, and squadron traditions continue to honour his sacrifice.
Why His Story Matters Today
In modern warfare, technology plays a major role. Yet, the story of Flying Officer Sekhon reminds us that individual courage still matters.
His actions show that:
- One person can change the outcome of a mission
- Leadership is possible even without rank or numbers
- Duty sometimes demands everything
These lessons remain timeless.
Closing Thoughts
Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon did not fly to seek recognition. He flew because the situation demanded action and because protecting the nation came before personal safety.
His story is not only about aerial combat. It is about responsibility, courage, and unwavering commitment. Remembering heroes like him ensures that the values they stood for continue to guide those who serve today.