Physically challenged cadet realises Air Force dream

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All set to don the colours of the Indian Air Force (IAF), a young cadet’s promising career was cut short in a flying accident during his training, leaving him paralysed below the waist. But he did not give up his dream to serve the IAF.

Flight Cadet R.K. Herojit Singh’s determination moved IAF Chief, Air Chief Marshal N.A.K. Browne, who in an unprecedented move, made a special request to Defence Minister A.K. Antony, for commissioning Mr. Singh, a young man hailing from a middle class family in Manipur. Mr. Antony approved the request on Friday, official sources said.

The accident had occurred during Mr. Singh’s training at the Air Force Station, Hakimpet. The IAF Chief sought special approval for retaining Mr. Singh in ground duties and strongly recommended his case for commissioning, after further training of six months.

Mr. Singh did not meet the medical norms for commissioning, due to a spinal cord injury which occurred during his training, two months prior to his course completion, sources in the IAF said.

Undergoing in a military hospital at Kirkee and confined to a wheel chair, his intellectual and motor capabilities are fully intact, the sources said.

Mr. Singh had a meritorious record with an exceptional performance in all fields during the service training of four years — three at the National Defence Academy and one at the Air Force Academy.

He was also adjudged ‘The Most Accomplished Flight Cadet’ of his course. Mr. Singh will undergo training in the Accounts Branch at the Air Force Academy, Dundigal, Hyderabad beginning January 9, 2013.

Allowing him to work from a wheelchair, the IAF believes Mr. Singh is fully fit, highly motivated and competent and his present condition and likely future condition will not impede efficient functioning as an officer in the accounts branch.

The Hindu : News / National : Physically challenged cadet realises Air Force dream