Punjab govt's bold move: Retired MiG-21 fighter jets to be installed in 5 top schools, fostering patriotism and excellence

Chandigarh (The Uttam Hindu): Students studying in government schools in Punjab will now get a glimpse of the glorious history of the Indian Air Force (IAF) right on their campus. The Indian Air Force, accepting a special request from the Punjab government, has granted permission to install retired MiG-21 fighter jets in five 'Schools of Eminence' in the state. Giving this information, State Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains said that this step will prove to be a milestone in inculcating the spirit of patriotism and national service among the students.

Education Minister Bains stated that these iconic Air Force aircraft will be displayed at "Schools of Eminence" in Ludhiana, Amritsar, Ferozepur, Nangal, and Kharar. He added that the process of installing these MiG-21 jets in schools will be completed soon, allowing students to view these historic aircraft up close.

The IAF has set clear criteria for installing these aircraft (airframes) in schools. According to these criteria, these fighter aircraft will only be provided to schools that are at the senior secondary level (up to 12th grade) and have at least 2,000 students enrolled. Furthermore, it is mandatory that the respective school administrations assume full responsibility for the maintenance of these historic aircraft.

Minister Bains stated that the state government is completing all formal preparations for this plan. He added that the Punjab government and the Air Force will jointly organize "ceremonial installation

events" in schools to mark the induction of these aircraft, instilling a deep sense of patriotism, discipline, and excellence in students.

Bains said he had written a letter to Air Chief Marshal Amar Preet Singh last month, proposing the proposal. "Together, we can create a living tribute to the MiG-21 and ignite the spirit of service and patriotism in generations to come," he wrote.

This will be the first time in Punjab that retired Indian Air Force fighter jets will be displayed in government schools. The government believes this initiative will serve as a great inspiration for students and encourage them to pursue careers in science, technology, and the defense services.