Defence Minister Arun Jaitley today emphasised on expediting approved modernisation programmes of the Indian Air Force. Inaugurating the biannual Air Force Commanders' Conference in New Delhi, Mr Jaitley acknowledged the IAF's capability as the first responder especially in face of a natural calamity.<br/><br/>He deliberated on the challenges to Defence Forces due to the rapidly changing geo-political situation in the world and the uncertainties existing in the region.<br/><br/>He commended IAF for having successfully conducted various military exercises and operations towards Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief both within and outside the country. Chief of the Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal B S Dhanoa gave updates to the Minister on the operational status of the force and the progress on infrastructure development.