At a decommissioning ceremony in Chandigarh, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh lauded the MiG-21, referring to it as the “bird of all seasons” that played a crucial role in shaping generations of Indian Air Force pilots since its induction in 1963. The MiG-21 was praised for its versatility as an interceptor and ground attack platform while significantly contributing to India’s air defense strategy. Singh underscored the aircraft’s legacy as a foundation for developing indigenous platforms like the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas, emphasizing the collaborative efforts of India’s defense ecosystem, including public sector units and private startups. This recognition of the MiG-21 highlights India’s commitment to enhancing its indigenous defense capabilities and fostering a culture of innovation in the aerospace sector.