New Delhi: If you’re in the military and posted in a far-flung area that makes finding a life partner tough, try a special online matrimonial service launched by the Indian Air Force (IAF).

Waking up to the difficulty faced by air warriors in finding matches for themselves or their children, the Air Force Wives Welfare Association (AFWWA) has introduced a matrimonial section on the IAF website www.indianairforce.nic.in.

“Air warriors posted in remote areas such as Siachen and Chabua have a tough time finding suitable matches. The facility was started on the official website of the IAF to help them,” Air Force spokesman wing commander Mahesh Upasini said.

The website is a brainchild of AFWWA president Zareen Major, wife of air chief marshal FH Major. The aim of the portal launched about two months ago is to bring “likeminded people together”, so that they can get married if compatible.

“News of the website has spread through word of mouth and it has already received around a thousand hits,” said Upasini.

The website not only contains profiles of air force officers and their children but also of personnel below officer rank.

“There is a special facility on the site. Air Force personnel posted in sensitive areas do not need to write their addresses. The proposals go to the air headquarters and are then forwarded to them,” Upasini said.

IAF personnel in remote areas do not even need an internet connection to log on to the site as it can be opened on the air force intranet.

In his profile, a prospective groom has written: “A helicopter pilot in the Indian Air Force. A person with a perfect blend of traditional and modern values. Straightforward, smart and with a good sense of humour. Likes driving, travelling, watching movies and of course, flying...”

The portal has also been attracting a number of civilians eager to marry defence personnel. Even though the AFWAA does not maintain a list of the number of marriages facilitated by the website, it hopes it will make it easier for defence personnel to find life partners.

Source : DNA