8th October is a special day when we pay tribute to the fearless guardians of India’s skies, the IAF personnel. Their unwavering dedication, bravery, and professionalism shine brightly on this occasion. The mighty force protecting India’s skyspace, the Indian Air Force, came into existence as the ‘Royal Indian Air Force,’ on 8 October 1932. The day is marked by the organization of grand parades and celebrations across the nation.
The Indian Air Force Day 2023’s motto is “Nabham Sparsham Deeptham” which means touch the sky with glory. The Indian Air Force has been engaged in four wars with Pakistan and one with the People’s Republic of China after the independence of India.
The Indian Air Force (IAF) celebrated its 91st anniversary on October 8, 2023, in the historic city of Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. This choice of location was significant as Prayagraj, previously known as Allahabad, holds cultural and strategic importance, housing the Central Air Command of the IAF. Nestled at the confluence of the Ganges, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers, Prayagraj is a revered pilgrimage site for Hindus.
The decision to host the Air Force Day parade and Air Display in Prayagraj was made due to its sprawling grounds at the Sangam confluence, offering a large audience the opportunity to witness this grand spectacle compared to previous years when it was held at Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.
The parade showcases the IAF’s personnel and cutting-edge equipment, while the Air Display captivates the audience with breathtaking aerial acrobatics. The 91st Indian Air Force Day Air Display in Prayagraj featured an impressive lineup of over 100 aircraft, including Rafale and Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jets, along with the indigenous Tejas light combat aircraft. Helicopters, transport aircraft, and aerobatic teams added to the spectacle.
The IAF anticipated a massive turnout for the event, and local authorities had made extensive arrangements to ensure the safety and convenience of the attendees. The Indian Air Force Day parade followed its traditional schedule and protocol, with the participation of Sarang helicopters adding grandeur to the occasion.
Notably, the legendary Russian-origin MIG-21 jets made their last appearance at the Indian Air Force Day parade as the IAF initiated the process of phasing out the remaining three squadrons of these aircraft. During the celebrations, Air Chief Marshal V R Chaudhary confirmed that the Tejas Mark 1A aircraft, developed indigenously, will replace the MiG-21s starting in 2025.