Hyderabad: Indian President Droupadi Murmu recently commended the Indian Air Force (IAF) for its dedication to future readiness and overall national security. Speaking at the Combined Graduation Parade in Dundigal, Telangana, President Murmu praised the IAF's inclusion of women officers in all roles and branches, expressing confidence in the increasing number of women fighter pilots in the future. She also applauded the Ministry of Defence for prioritizing indigenization and the procurement of domestic weapons.
President Murmu emphasized the significance of a comprehensive defense preparedness strategy that considers the challenges of modern high-technology warfare. She expressed satisfaction with the steps taken by the IAF to remain ever-ready and forward-looking. The President also commended the Ministry of Defence for its efforts to foster self-reliance in defense production, aligning with the national agenda of 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India).
During her address, President Murmu fondly recalled her historic flight in a Sukhoi 30 MKI fighter aircraft at the Tezpur Air Force Station in Assam. Describing the experience as "great," she mentioned flying for approximately 30 minutes, witnessing the breathtaking views of the Brahmaputra and Tezpur valleys with the stunning backdrop of the Himalayas. This flight marked a significant moment as she became the third President and the second woman President to fly in a fighter aircraft.
In a stride towards self-reliance, the Ministry of Defence approved a fresh list of 928 components and subsystems to be procured from the domestic industry. This decision aligns with the government's push for 'Atmanirbharta' in defense production, emphasizing the importance of reducing dependence on foreign imports.
President Murmu's address underscored the IAF's focus on future-readiness and the inclusion of women officers in various roles, especially in combat positions. She also acknowledged the Ministry of Defence's efforts to promote indigenous defense production, furthering the goal of a self-reliant India in the defense sector.
President Droupadi Murmu reviewed the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) of the 211th Course with full military splendor at the Air Force Academy (AFA) in Dundigal near Hyderabad on Saturday morning.
This historic occasion marked the first time a President served as the reviewing officer at AFA, according to AFA officials. The CGP celebrates the successful completion of Pre-Commissioning Training for flight cadets from various branches of the Indian Air Force. During the parade, the Flight Cadets' ranks are unveiled, symbolizing the award of the President's Commission, as stated in an official statement.
The reviewing officer also bestows 'Wings' and 'Brevets' on the cadets, depending on the branch they are commissioned into. The ceremony includes the presentation of 'Wings' and 'Brevets' to officers from the Indian Navy, and Indian Coast Guard, and cadets from Friendly Foreign Countries who have received training from the Indian Air Force, as mentioned in an official statement.
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