Indian Air Force Day

Every year on 8 October, the country observes the Indian Air Force Day (IAF). The day is celebrated to raise awareness around the world about IAF as an organization that works towards strengthening national security. The Indian Air Force functions with the motto “Nabham Sparsham Deeptham" which is "Touch the Sky with Glory".

 

The IAF was established on October 8, 1932, in undivided India which was under colonial rule. It was given the prefix "Royal" by King George VI for its contribution during the Second World War. The prefix was later dropped in 1950 when India became a republic. As a result, every year, October 8 is observed as the Indian Air Force Day to celebrate the proud day of the foundation of IAF, also known as Bharatiya Vayu Sena

 

The President of India holds the rank of Supreme Commander of the IAF.  The Chief of the Air Staff, an air chief marshal, is a four-star officer and is responsible for the bulk of operational command of the Air Force.

 

Not only it has the responsibility to safeguard the Indian Territory from all risks, but also provides support during natural calamities to the affected areas. The IAF has been involved in numerous wars: World War II, Sino-Indian War, Operation Cactus, Operation Vijay, Kargil War, Indo-Pakistan War, Congo Crisis, Operation Poomalai, Operation Pawan, and few others. The IAF's mission expands beyond engagement with hostile forces, with the IAF participating in United Nations peacekeeping missions.

 

Among the other armed forces, the IAF is a crucial organ that plays an important role in the wars for the country. The fourth-largest operational air force in the world, the primary mission of the IAF is to secure the Indian airspace as well as conduct aerial activities during armed conflicts.

 

Adding strength to our country, the IAF inducted the Apaches attack helicopters and it gives a major boost to the Air Force's combat powers. The Chinook helicopters is an advanced multi-mission helicopter that provides the Indian Air Force with unmatched strategic airlift capability across the full spectrum of combat and humanitarian missions. The Indian Air Force formally inducted the omni-role Rafale combat jet, widely described as a “game changer”. It's capable of swing roles from Air-to-Air or Air-to-Ground strikes in a single mission. The Rafale is also capable of nuclear strikes and shipboard missions from aircraft carriers

The day is celebrated in air force bases all across the nation with air shows and parades conducted by air force cadets.I am a proud granddaughter of an Indian air force officer who took part in 1965 and 1971 war and worked in AN 32 transport aircraft project.

 

 

~Sonika MS, 5LS