By Ritu Sharma, IANS,
New Delhi : If you’re in the military and posted in a far-flung area that makes it tough to find a life partner, try a special online matrimonial service launched by the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Waking up to the difficulty faced by air warriors in finding matches for themselves or their children, the Air Force Wives Welfare Association (AFWWA) has launched a matrimonial section on the IAF website www.indianairforce.nic.in.
“Some air warriors posted in remote areas like Siachen and Chabua have a tough time finding suitable matches. The facility was started on the official website of the IAF to help them,” Air Force spokesman Wing Commander Mahesh Upasini told IANS.
The website is the brainchild of AFWWA president Zareen Major, wife of Air Chief Marshal F.H. Major. The aim of the portal, which was launched about two months ago, is to bring “likeminded people together” so that they can get married if they are compatible.
“News of the website has spread through word of mouth and it has received around a thousand hits,” Upasini said.
The website not only contains profiles of air force officers and their children but also of personnel below officer rank.
“There is a special facility on the site. Air force personnel posted in sensitive areas do not need to write their address. The proposals go to the air headquarters and are then forwarded to them,” said Upasini.
IAF personnel in remote areas do not even need an internet connection to log on to the site as it can be opened on the air force intranet.
In his profile, a prospective groom has written: “A helicopter pilot in the Indian Air Force. A person with a perfect blend of traditional and modern values. Straightforward, smart and with a good sense of humour. Likes driving, travelling, watching movies and of course, flying…”
The portal has also been attracting a number of civilians eager to marry defence personnel.
Even though AFWAA has not maintained a list of the number of marriages facilitated by the website, it is hopeful that it will make it easier for defence personnel to find their life partners.