Indian Air Force Creates History: Four Units Awarded President’s Standard and Colours
Ghaziabad: In a momentous occasion marking a significant milestone in the annals of the Indian Air Force, four esteemed units were bestowed with the prestigious President’s Standard and Colours for the first time in its illustrious history. The ceremony, held with grandeur at the Hindon Air Force Station, witnessed His Excellency President Draupadi Murmu conferring the highest military honor upon the distinguished units. The President of India, Droupadi 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 a function held at the Air Force Station Hindon (Uttar Pradesh) today.
The auspicious event was graced by eminent dignitaries including Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhary, Union Minister of State for Road Transport VK Singh, and State Government Minister Jitin Prasad, alongside a gathering of esteemed guests and military personnel.
In her address, His Excellency President Draupadi Murmu extended heartfelt congratulations to the valiant women air warriors of the Indian Air Force, recognizing their indomitable spirit and invaluable contributions. Speaking on the occasion of International Women’s Day, she expressed profound joy at witnessing women soar to great heights and bring glory to the nation through their service in the Air Force.
Speaking on the occasion, the President said that the contribution of the Indian Air Force in protecting our country is written in golden letters. The Air warriors have shown amazing courage, dedication and self-sacrifice in the wars of 1948, 1965, 1971 and 1999. They have 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 that it is a matter of immense pleasure that the Indian Air Force is not only protecting the country’s space but is also making an important contribution to India’s space programme. It is a matter of great pride for all the officers and soldiers of the Air Force that the four astronauts who have been selected for ISRO’s Gaganyaan mission are Air Force officers.
The President said that in this rapidly changing era, security requirements and priorities are also changing rapidly. Like other sectors, the role of technology is becoming more important in the defence sector too. She was happy to note that the Indian Air Force has been adopting modern technology over the past few years.
The President greeted all women on the occasion of International Women’s Day and said that it is a matter of joy that women are being provided equal opportunities in all branches of the Indian Air Force. They are being encouraged to make a career in the Air Force. She expressed confidence that in the coming times, more and more girls will join the Air Force and serve the country. She added that increased representation of women in the Air Force will make this Force more inclusive.
“The Presidential Standard and Colours stand as a testament to the exemplary dedication, valor, and unwavering commitment displayed by these units in safeguarding the sovereignty of our nation,” remarked President Murmu, encapsulating the significance of the honor bestowed upon the units.
The President’s Standard and Colours, the highest military accolade accorded to an armed forces unit, symbolize the epitome of honor and excellence. This historic ceremony not only commemorates the remarkable achievements of the Indian Air Force but also underscores the pivotal role played by women in shaping the destiny of our armed forces and the nation at large.
The Local Post extends its heartfelt congratulations to the honored units and salutes the gallant men and women of the Indian Air Force for their unwavering dedication and service to the nation.
