Delhi, 14 June (H.S.): The Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) at the Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal Hyderabad, took place on Saturday marking the end of pre-commissioning training for 254 graduating Flight Cadets of the Indian Air Force (IAF). Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff, served as the Reviewing Officer (RO), conferring the President's Commission to the graduates. Dignitaries, including Air Marshal Tejinder Singh and Air Marshal PK Vohra, attended the event, which featured a general salute and an impressive march past. Nine Indian Navy officers, seven Coast Guard officers, and one foreign trainee also received their 'Wings' for completing flying training. The highlight was the 'Commissioning Ceremony' where the cadets were commissioned as Flying Officers after taking an oath to safeguard the nation. The celebration included displays by the Akash Gangateam, the Air Warrior Drill Team, and the Suryakiran aerobatic team, along with coordinated fly-pasts of various trainer aircraft. RO AP Singh honored top-performing graduates, including Flying Officer Rohan Krishnamurti, who received the President's Plaque and Sword of Honour for excellence in the Pilots' course, and Flying Officer Nishtha Vaid, awarded for outstanding merit in Ground duty. The RO praised the officers for their impressive parade performance.

In a heartfelt address to the graduating officers, he highlighted the demanding yet rewarding nature of their chosen career in service to the nation. He emphasized the evolving landscape of warfare and the critical importance of aerospace power. Reflecting on Operation Sindoor, he praised the Indian Air Force’s professionalism, noting its ability to strike decisively in conflict. He reminded the officers of their collective responsibility to uphold the trust placed in them by every Indian, stating that today marks not just the end of rigorous training, but the beginning of their professional journeys, urging them to continuously seek growth and new capabilities.

He pointed out the complexities of future battlespaces and the transformation of the IAF into an aerospace force, positioning many officers at the forefront of India's space endeavors. He underscored the need for commitment, focus, innovation, and passion for their roles. Concluding, he urged them to wear their uniform—symbolizing national pride—with honor, lead courageously, and uphold the core values of the IAF. The ceremony concluded with the new officers marching in formation to martial tunes, marking an unforgettable day that signifies the start of their dignified service to the nation, celebrated alongside their proud families.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar