By IANS,
New Delhi : Air Chief Marshal P.V. Naik Sunday took over as the 19th chief of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Naik took over the command of the IAF from Air Chief Marshal Fali Homi Major at a change of guard ceremony at the Vayu Bhavan here. The ceremony was attended by chiefs of the IAF’s seven commands and other senior officials.
The new air force chief also reviewed a ceremonial guard of honour before assuming command.
Naik was commissioned into the air force in 1969 as a fighter pilot. He is an alumnus of Sainik School, Satara in Maharashtra and the National Defence Academy, Khadakvasla.
During nearly 40 years of service he has held many command and instructional appointments. He has over 3,000 hours of flying to his credit. Naik also took part in the 1971 war.
Naik has also attended courses at the National Defence College, New Delhi, College of Defence Management, Secunderabad and the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington.
Naik has been decorated with the Param Vishist Seva Medal (PVSM) and Vishist Seva Medal (VSM) for distinguished service.