He assumed the command from vice Air Commodore Prasanth Eknath Patange, a Defence spokesman said here today.
A colourful ceremonial parade as per the customs and tradition of the IAF marked the occasion of change of command.
The parade was commanded by Group Captain SP Singh Chief Operations Officer (COO), of Jammu Air Force Station, he said.
Air Commodore Lal was commissioned in the flying branch in the IAF in December 1987. He is an alumnus of NDA and a graduate from DSSC Wellington.
Air Commodore Lal has been awarded the Vayu Sena Medal, Chief Of Air Staff Commendation and has been commended by AOC-In-C and VCAS.