Voluntary retirement by pilots of IAF

Around 101 pilots of IAF have applied for grant of Premature Retirement during the last one year. The broad reasons furnished by the applicants for grant of premature Retirement are Supersession, Lack of Career Progression, Medical/compassionate grounds etc. Such applications are considered on a case to case basis in accordance with extant Government policy and service exigencies. Concerted efforts are taken by the Indian Air Force to carry out a proactive publicity campaign to reach the target group across the country, such as (i) participation in career fairs and exhibitions to enhance one-to-one interaction; (ii) advertisement in print and electronic media including recruitment and career related articles; (iii) motivational lectures in schools/colleges; (iv) distribution of publicity material to target group; (v) visuals/signages at vantage points all over the country at strategic locations. The Short Service Commission for Flying branch has been modified to make men also eligible for induction in this branch. The implementation of the recommendations of VIth Central Pay Commission will also go a long way in attracting youth.

This information was given by Defence Minister Shri AK Antony in written reply to Smt Jaya Bachchan in Rajya Sabha today.