On the 17th of June, President Smt Droupadi Murmu reviewed the Combined Graduation Parade at the Air Force Academy in Hyderabad. In her address, she praised the challenging and honorable career of the cadets in the Indian Air Force (IAF) and urged them to uphold the legacy of their predecessors. The President emphasized the IAF’s inspiring motto and its significant contributions to defending the nation. She also highlighted the IAF’s involvement in humanitarian efforts and stressed the importance of technological advancements for defense preparedness. The President commended the Air Force’s readiness for future challenges.
President’s Address: Embracing Challenges and Upholding Legacy
President Smt Droupadi Murmu addressed the cadets during the Combined Graduation Parade at the Air Force Academy, underscoring the challenging, rewarding, and honorable nature of their career in the IAF. Her speech emphasized the importance of carrying forward the esteemed legacy of those who served before them and upholding the core values of the Indian Air Force.
Upholding the Inspiring Motto
The President highlighted the IAF’s motto, “Touch the sky with glory” or “Nabhah sprisham deeptam,” as an embodiment of the spirit and aspirations of the Indian Air Force. She expressed confidence that the cadets would internalize and live up to the expectations of the nation by embracing the essence of this motto.
Remarkable Contributions in Defense
Smt Droupadi Murmu acknowledged the invaluable role played by the brave warriors of the Indian Air Force in defending the country during significant conflicts. Their dedication and skills were instrumental in the wars with the hostile neighbor in 1948, 1965, and 1971, as well as during the Kargil conflict. The President also recognized the IAF’s achievements in destroying the terror hideout at Balakot. The Indian Air Force’s reputation stands tall, characterized by professionalism, dedication, and self-sacrifice.
Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief
Highlighting the IAF’s commitment to humanitarian efforts, the President referred to the recent earthquake in Turkiye and Syria, where the Indian Air Force swiftly responded despite adverse weather conditions. The IAF provided medical aid and disaster relief, showcasing its readiness to support neighboring nations in times of crisis. She also commended the successful evacuation operation in Kabul, wherein over 600 individuals, including Indians and other nationals, were airlifted from a hostile environment—a testament to the Indian Air Force’s exceptional capabilities.
Embracing Technological Advancements for Defense Preparedness
President Murmu emphasized the need for the armed forces, including the Air Force, to keep pace with rapidly advancing technology to enhance defense preparedness. She highlighted the importance of an integrated perspective in this regard, considering land, sea, and air domains. The President lauded the Air Force for its proactive measures in staying ever-ready, particularly by embracing future-oriented approaches to address the evolving security scenario. The challenges of fighting high-tech wars in a network-centric future battle space were acknowledged.
