New Delhi, 08 October (H.S.): President Droupadi Murmu, Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several other leaders on Thursday extended warm greetings to air warriors, veterans and their families on the occasion of the 94th Air Force Day.

President Murmu, in a post on X, said the Indian Air Force has rendered exemplary service to the nation while maintaining the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and preparedness. She said Operation Sindoor demonstrated the courage, precision and operational readiness of the country’s air warriors in safeguarding national security.

“The Indian Air Force has rendered exemplary service to the nation, upholding high standards of professionalism, discipline and preparedness. Operation Sindoor demonstrated the courage, precision and operational preparedness of our air warriors in safeguarding the nation’s security. They have also extended valuable assistance during disasters and humanitarian crises. Their dedication remains a source of inspiration and pride for the nation. May the Indian Air Force continue to uphold its proud legacy of service and excellence,” she said.

Vice President C. P. Radhakrishnan said the Indian Air Force’s valour, professionalism and unwavering devotion to duty continue to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and inspire the nation. He also highlighted the IAF’s role in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, saying its contribution reflects its steadfast commitment to serving humanity during times of crisis.

He expressed the hope that the Indian Air Force would continue to scale new heights and remain ever-ready to serve the nation.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, while sharing a video on X, said the skies have always held a unique fascination and that the Indian Air Force, by demonstrating its strength in the skies, has captured the attention of every Indian while instilling a sense of security.

He said that over the past decade, the country’s armed forces, including the Air Force, have gained access to some of the world’s most advanced technologies. The Indian Air Force, he added, is now capable of outmanoeuvring adversaries not only through weaponry but also through data and drones. Every moment of Operation Sindoor, he said, stands as testimony to the capabilities of India’s armed forces.

Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla said that throughout its glorious history, the Indian Air Force has set exemplary standards of courage, discipline, valour and indomitable resolve that fill every Indian with pride.

“From the battlefront to humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, the nation’s air warriors have faced every challenge with determination,” he said, adding that the Indian Air Force is now preparing itself to meet the security challenges of the future through advanced technology, indigenous capabilities and innovation.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said the Indian Air Force is a symbol of courage, valour, discipline and professionalism. With unwavering resolve, air warriors have always protected the nation’s skies and remained prepared to confront every challenge whenever the country has faced a crisis.

He said their dedication and service had not only strengthened India’s national security but had also greatly reinforced the spirit of national unity and collective resolve.

Union Home Minister and Minister of Cooperation Amit Shah described IAF personnel as “real-life bravehearts” whose invincible valour, precision and formidable striking capabilities are testified to by the Earth and satellites in distant space.

He said that even after the “daydreams” of India’s adversaries have been shattered, the patriotism and professionalism of the country’s air warriors would continue to inspire generations to come.

Union Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan said the motto “Nabhah Sparsham Diptam” reflects the extraordinary courage, bravery and valour of the nation’s air warriors, which have made India’s skies secure and formidable for its adversaries.

He said the air warriors’ devotion to duty and dedication to the nation would continue to inspire the youth to work for the service, unity and integrity of the country.

“The nation takes immense pride in its brave guardians of the skies,” Shivraj Singh Chouhan said.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar