Text Ratnajyoti Dutta | Photographs Sipra Das
Indian Air Force’s unique stature scaled a new height with the selection of its four personnel in the prestigious Gaganyaan Mission, President Droupadi Murmu said. She said the IAF is not only protecting the country’s space but is also making an important contribution to India’s space programme.
Gaganyaan is the name of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) mission to send Indian astronauts to low-earth orbit for a short time period, via indigenously built launch vehicle. “It is a matter of great pride for all the officers and soldiers of the Air Force,” the President said on March 8, at a function at the Air Force Station Hindon in Ghaziabad district of Uttar Pradesh.
President Standard
Murmu presented President’s Standard to 45 Squadron and 221 Squadron and President’s Colours to 11 Base Repair Depot and 509 Signal Unit at the function. The contribution of the Indian Air Force in protecting our country is written in golden letters, she said.
The Air warriors have shown amazing courage, dedication and self-sacrifice in the wars of 1948, 1965, 1971 and 1999. IAF has also made an important contribution in relief and rescue work during disasters in the country and abroad.
The devotion to duty and determination displayed by our brave airmen are a source of inspiration for all citizens, the President said. In this rapidly-changing era, security requirements and priorities are also changing rapidly, she said and expressed happiness that the Indian Air Force has been adopting modern technology over the past few years.
The President also greeted women on the occasion of International Women’s Day. It is a matter of joy that women are being provided equal opportunities in all branches of the Indian Air Force, she said, and added that they are being encouraged to make a career in the Air Force.
