Punjab is exploring a bold new initiative to connect students with the nation’s military heritage by placing iconic fighter jets within school campuses. The state’s School Education Minister, Harjot Singh Bains, has formally requested the Indian Air Force to allocate five retired MiG-21 aircraft for display at selected government-run Schools of Eminence.
The proposal envisions the aircraft as more than static exhibits. Bains hopes these symbols of national defense will serve as daily sources of inspiration for students, encouraging them to pursue paths in fields such as defense, aerospace, and engineering. The schools identified for this initiative are located in Ludhiana, Amritsar, Ferozepur, Nangal, and Kharar.
In a letter addressed to Air Chief Marshal S Amar Preet Singh, Bains invited the Air Force to collaborate on ceremonial events to mark the installation of each jet. These events would offer students a rare opportunity to learn about the aircraft’s operational history and its significance in shaping India’s defense narrative.
The MiG-21, recently decommissioned, holds a distinguished place in Indian military history. It played a key role in the 1965 Indo-Pak war, the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, and the 1999 Kargil conflict. Bains described the aircraft as a lasting symbol of bravery, discipline, and service.
He also assured that all installations would fully comply with Indian Air Force protocols and would be carried out with respect and attention to detail.
This effort reflects the Punjab government’s larger vision for transforming public education. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, the state has already launched international training programs for school principals in an effort to raise academic standards and broaden student horizons.
Ultimately, the proposal is about more than displaying military hardware. It aims to bring history to life, instill national pride, and inspire the next generation to aim higher in both education and service.
