New Delhi, August 1: Air Marshal Tejpal Singh, AVSM, VM, on Friday assumed charge as the Deputy Chief of the Air Staff (DCAS) of the Indian Air Force, succeeding Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti, who retired on 31 July 2026 after nearly 39 years of distinguished service.
Before taking over the new appointment, Air Marshal Tejpal Singh paid homage to the nation’s fallen heroes by laying a wreath at the National War Memorial in New Delhi.
Veteran Fighter Pilot
Commissioned into the Indian Air Force on 16 June 1990 as a fighter pilot, Air Marshal Tejpal Singh brings over 3,500 hours of flying experience across multiple fighter aircraft and operational platforms.
He is a:
- Category ‘A’ Qualified Flying Instructor
- Experimental Test Pilot
During his illustrious career, he has held several important operational, command and staff appointments, contributing significantly to the Indian Air Force’s combat capability, training standards and operational preparedness.
Decorated Air Warrior
In recognition of his distinguished and dedicated service to the nation, Air Marshal Tejpal Singh has been awarded:
- Vayu Sena Medal (VM) in January 2011
- Ati Vishisht Seva Medal (AVSM) in January 2021
Both honours were conferred by the President of India for his exceptional service to the Indian Air Force.
Takes Over from Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti
Air Marshal Tejpal Singh succeeds Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti, SYSM, AVSM, VM, who superannuated on 31 July 2026 after serving the nation for nearly four decades.
During his tenure, Air Marshal Bharti held several key appointments and made significant contributions to the operational and strategic capabilities of the Indian Air Force.
Key Leadership Appointment
As Deputy Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Tejpal Singh will play a crucial role in overseeing the operational planning, capability development, force modernisation and policy implementation of the Indian Air Force.
His appointment comes at a time when the IAF is accelerating the induction of indigenous platforms, modernising its fighter fleet, enhancing network-centric warfare capabilities and strengthening India’s overall air power.
The appointment of Air Marshal Tejpal Singh is expected to further support the Indian Air Force’s ongoing transformation into a technologically advanced and future-ready combat force.