Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar was honoured by being made an Honorary Group Captain of the Indian Air Force at the 83rd Indian Air Force Day celebrations at the Hindon Air Base. The Master Blaster, now retired from international cricket, thus became the first sportsperson to be made an Honorary Group Captain in the Indian Air Force.

A highlight of the event was the announcement by Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha, Chief of Air Staff, that women pilots will soon fly fighter jets of the Indian Air Force. “We have women pilots flying transport aircraft and helicopters, we are now planning to induct them into the fighter stream to meet the aspirations of the young women of India,” said Air Chief Marshal Raha in his address.

In a brief interaction with a few journalists, Tendulkar said he wanted to bring his son, who loves the IAF, along but could not. Tendulkar also ruled out the possibility of him flying in a Sukhoi fighter jet soon. The Master Blaster also took to Twitter to express his gratitude towards the Indian Air Force and the service rendered by them towards the country.