‘It takes intelligence and instinct to be a military pilot’

He retired from the Indian Air Force six months back, but not from flying. He continues to fly for a government of India undertaking based in Bengaluru. What piqued his interest in the forces was simple: his father was posted in Iraq, where he witnessed the Iraq War. Also, many of his classmates were children of Indian Air Force officers. Meet Air Commodore (Rtd) Manish Singh, batch of 1987, at Apeejay School, Noida.

In an impromptu interview, he shares how the school’s emphasis on discipline helped him in his career.

The school lays a lot of emphasis on discipline. How did that help you in your career?

That is true. The school was led by people who instilled discipline at every level. The principal and the staff ensured that discipline was part of our upbringing. There was strong support from the staff, and the institute was well-led. Discipline was naturally built into us in a very balanced and supportive environment.

Is there any fond memory from school that is still very vivid for you?

I joined the school in Class IX, being the first batch moving to the new building. The senior classes were actively involved in building the school. We spent time helping develop different sections, the sports ground, and even the library. We were not just students; we were like an extension of the staff and teachers. That is what made the experience special. We were treated very well, and it never felt like we were just students.

A valuable lesson learnt.

The most important value I learnt was that academics alone are not enough. The school emphasised overall development even over 40 years back. That is something I have carried forward in my life and passed on to my children. Life is unique, and you need well-rounded development.

The difference between being a military and a commercial pilot…

There is a clear difference between a civil pilot and a military pilot. In the military, it is about survival instinct, intelligence, and the ability to innovate continuously. People often think it is just about flying, but that is not true. If you look at modern conflicts, survival depends on how smart and adaptive you are. Innovation happens every day.

What would you like schools to focus on today?

 I feel schools should motivate children to look beyond just getting into good colleges or going abroad. There should be a sense of responsibility towards the country. Joining the military is not the only way to serve, but having that feeling for your country is important. Ultimately, a child should aspire to be a good citizen. That, to me, is what truly matters.

How did the school influence your decision to join the forces?

Our then Principal was a great admirer of the military. He always spoke highly of the Armed Forces. He even taught us mathematics. Our physical training instructor was a retired Naval Petty Officer. So many people in the school were pro-military. Combined with my earlier experiences, it was a mixed influence. The school was very forthcoming in motivating students to pursue something beyond just academics.