GUWAHATI: Air Marshal Pranab Kumar Barbora, one of the first officers from the Northeast to accent to the prominent post in the Indian Air Force (IAF), passed away on Monday, while receiving medical treatment at the Army’s Research and Referral hospital Hospital in Delhi.
Born in Shillong, Air Marshal Barbora was known for his dynamic personality and a strong commitment to teamwork. His colleagues remember him as someone who encouraged collaborative efforts and mutual support within the IAF.
During his tenure as Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief (AOC-in-C) of the Western Air Command (WAC), he spearheaded joint exercises with the northern, western, and south-western commands of the Indian Army.
Addressing him as a “air warrior”, Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal said that “his passing away is a great loss to us”.
Offering his condolences, Ports, Shipping and Waterways Minister Sarbananda Sonowal wrote, “Saddened to learn about the demise of former IAF Vice Chief, Air Marshal (Rtd) PK Borbora. An illustrious air warrior who devoted his entire life to the nation, his passing away is a great loss to us all. My deepest condolences to his family, friends & well-wishers. Om Shanti.”
One of the most significant achievements associated with Air Marshal Barbora’s name was the reactivation of the Daulat Beg Oldi (DBO) airstrip in 2008, after more than four decades of closure.
His journey in the IAF began on June 13, 1970, when he was commissioned as a fighter pilot. Over the years, he actively contributed to the IAF’s operations and advancements; notably, the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War.
In addition to his other contributions, Air Marshal Barbora was part of the IAF team that introduced the first Jaguar squadron. He also played a key role in the establishment of the IAF’s inaugural Air Combat Simulator, a pioneering initiative in Asia.
For his exemplary service and dedication to the IAF, Air Marshal PK Barbora was honoured with the Param Vishisht Seva Medal and Vayu Sena Medal as recognition of his significant contributions to the field of aviation and national defence.
