IAF Honors War Hero Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon With SIM 2025; 45,000 Participants From 46 Air Force Stations Join

In a stirring tribute to the bravery and legacy of Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon, the Indian Air Force (IAF) on Sunday (November 2, 2025) organised the first-ever Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon at Air Force Station Pune. The event celebrated the courage, sportsmanship, and indomitable spirit of the IAF’s only Param Vir Chakra (PVC) recipient.

SIM 2025 marathon featured three categories — 21 km, 10 km, and 5 km — symbolising endurance, teamwork, and dedication. Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon (SIM 2025) is a tribute to Flying Officer Sekhon, who was the only IAF officer to be awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest wartime gallantry award, for his unmatched courage during the 1971 Indo-Pak War.

The first-ever Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon 2025 (SIM-25) witnessed a spectacular culmination, uniting the nation in a celebration of fitness, valour, and pride.

SIM 2025: What made the marathon a fitting tribute?

The event drew an overwhelming response, with over 3,500 participants, including Air Warriors, their families, schoolchildren, and citizens of Pune, joining the run. The marathon was flagged off at 0545 hours from the Station Sports Ground by Air Commodore Satbir Singh Rai, VM, Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station Pune.

In Delhi, the marathon saw great participation of over 12,000 runners, including men, women, and children of all ages. Across the country, over 45,000 participants from 46 Air Force Stations joined the event. The enthusiastic participation and patriotic fervour turned the event into a symbol of collective respect and remembrance for one of India’s greatest air heroes.

What message did the IAF leadership share?

The marathon concluded at 0930 hours with a prize distribution ceremony at the Station Sports Ground. Addressing the gathering, Air Commodore Rai highlighted the importance of fitness and discipline as integral elements of military life.

He urged personnel and citizens alike to maintain a regular workout regimen, emphasizing that physical strength and mental agility are crucial for both personal well-being and operational readiness.

“Fitness is not just a routine — it’s a commitment to staying ready, sharp, and resilient,” he said, motivating Air Warriors and participants to embody the values of perseverance that defined Flying Officer Sekhon’s legacy.

Additionally, the event was graced by the Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan and the Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, along with senior officers of the Indian Air Force and distinguished guests. Demonstrating exemplary fitness and spirit, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh himself participated in the 21 km run, inspiring air warriors and citizens alike.

Why is Flying Officer Sekhon’s legacy so significant?

Flying Officer Nirmal Jit Singh Sekhon was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military honour, for his extraordinary courage in the face of overwhelming odds during the 1971 Indo-Pak War. Stationed at Srinagar Air Base, Sekhon engaged enemy aircraft despite being outnumbered, displaying unmatched gallantry before laying down his life in the line of duty.

The Sekhon IAF Marathon now stands as an annual reminder of his selfless service, inspiring future generations of Air Warriors and citizens alike to live by the principles of courage, commitment, and fitness.

With its successful first edition, the Sekhon Indian Air Force Marathon is set to become an annual IAF event, promoting physical fitness, esprit de corps, and national pride. The initiative underscores the IAF’s commitment not only to operational excellence but also to instilling the values of resilience and patriotism among India’s youth.