Kullu: Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Monday inaugurated a new National Cadet Corps (NCC) hangar at Bhuntar Airport in Kullu district, marking a new chapter for the Air Wing of the NCC in the state. Constructed at a cost of ₹75 lakh, the facility is expected to improve aviation training opportunities for young people in Himachal Pradesh.
During the inauguration ceremony, an aircraft received a water cannon salute as it headed towards the hangar. NCC cadets also displayed static and flyable aircraft models, along with drones designed and developed by them. The demonstrations highlighted their technical skills, creativity and interest in aviation.
Addressing the occasion, the Chief Minister said the new hangar would strengthen aviation training infrastructure in the region. It would provide Air NCC cadets with better opportunities for practical aviation learning, simulator-based training and the development of flying skills.
Sukhu said the facility would help young people in Himachal Pradesh develop the skills needed to become pilots, while also nurturing responsible citizenship and leadership qualities.
He encouraged Air NCC cadets and said the state government wanted young people to make progress in the aviation sector. The activation of the NCC flying node and the start of training activities at Bhuntar Airport would inspire youth, particularly those from the state’s mountainous regions, to pursue careers in the Indian Air Force and civil aviation.
The facility holds special significance as it is the first dedicated facility of its kind to be established in Kullu since the Air NCC was introduced in Himachal Pradesh in 1972.
Its establishment followed decades of infrastructure constraints, administrative complexities and operational challenges. The hangar is expected to bring aviation training opportunities closer to young people, particularly those from remote and rural areas.
Earlier, the Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu received a warm welcome on his arrival at Bhuntar Airport. MLA Sunder Singh Thakur, Himachal Pradesh State Commission for Women Chairperson Vidya Negi, APMC Chairman Ram Singh Mian, NCC Group Commander at Shimla Group Headquarters Brigadier Harpreet Singh, NCC officers and staff, cadets and their parents attended the inauguration ceremony.
