The Indian Air Force celebrated the centenary birthday of Squadron Leader Onkar Singh (retd) at No.3 Base Repair Depot in Chandigarh on June 18, 2026. Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, joined senior serving and retired officers to mark this rare milestone in the life of a distinguished IAF veteran.
A Century of Service and Inspiration
Squadron Leader Onkar Singh, a specialist aeronautical engineer on the Dakota transport aircraft, served the IAF with dedication, professionalism, and distinction. Throughout his service and post-retirement life, he has been known for his discipline, commitment to fitness, and positive outlook.
At age 17, he traveled to Lahore in 1943 for pilot selection but was rejected due to color blindness. Instead of returning to his village, he enlisted in the Air Force. He was later commissioned as an engineer in the Mechanical Branch, specializing in maintaining the Dakota, which was the workhorse of the transport fleet and made pioneering flights in the northern sector.
After retiring in 1978, he settled in the tricity area. His immediate family has grown to 22 members, including six Class-I government officers, four doctors, four engineers, one lawyer, two airline pilots, and one PCS officer.
Family Legacy and Personal Life
Though he lost his wife, Gurjit Kaur, at age 92, Sqn Ldr Onkar Singh fondly cherishes their extraordinary companionship. Married in 1947, the couple shared a 76-year union marked by mutual devotion and strong family values.
Their son, Wg Cdr MS Mander, served as a Mirage 2000 pilot in the IAF and later flew VVIP aircraft in civil aviation. Their elder daughter, Dr. Jyothi, had a distinguished medical career, while younger daughter Kamlesh rose to Deputy General Manager at the State Bank of India.
Sqn Ldr Onkar Singh attributes his good health and longevity to a life of moderation, discipline, and simple habits. As he enters his centenary year, he looks back with pride on a distinguished career and fulfilling family life.
A Fitting Tribute
The centenary celebration was a fitting tribute to a veteran whose life exemplifies dedication to duty, resilience, and service before self. His remarkable journey stands as an inspiration to Air Warriors, veterans, and citizens across the nation, the IAF stated.
Surrounded by four generations of a proud and accomplished family, the veteran officer remains a source of inspiration. His legacy of service is reflected in the achievements of his family members, who have excelled in the armed forces, aviation, and other professions.
