The Air Force Academy (AFA) Dundigal, Hyderabad, celebrated the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) on December 14, 2024, marking the successful culmination of pre-commissioning training for flight cadets of the Flying and Ground Duty branches of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), presided over the event as the Reviewing Officer (RO), conferring the President’s Commission upon 204 graduating flight cadets, which included 178 men and 26 women.
A Momentous Day for the Indian Air Force
The CGP was a landmark occasion, witnessing the commissioning of the first batch of officers from the newly established Weapon Systems branch. The event also celebrated the achievements of nine officers from the Indian Navy, nine from the Indian Coast Guard, and one from a friendly foreign country, who were awarded their flying “Wings” upon completing their training.
The ceremony was graced by the presence of Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command, and Air Marshal S Shrinivas, Commandant of AFA, along with other dignitaries and proud family members of the graduating officers.
Parade Highlights and Flypast
The Reviewing Officer was accorded a General Salute by the parade, followed by an impressive march past. The highlight of the parade was the Commissioning Ceremony, where the graduating cadets received their ranks and took an oath administered by the Commandant of AFA, pledging to uphold the sovereignty and honor of the nation.
Adding grandeur to the event, a synchronized flypast by Pilatus PC-7 MkII, Hawk, Kiran, and Chetak trainer aircraft enthralled the audience. The event concluded with breathtaking aerobatics performed by the Sarang helicopter display team, Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT), and the SU-30 MKI aircraft.
Recognizing Excellence
In recognition of their exceptional achievements, several graduating officers were honored with prestigious awards:
- Flying Officer Parag Dhankar of the Flying branch received the President’s Plaque and the Chief of the Air Staff Sword of Honour for securing the top position in the overall order of merit in the pilots’ course.
- Flying Officer Ram Prasad Gurjar of the Ground Duty branch was awarded the President’s Plaque for his outstanding performance.
Address by the Chief of the Air Staff
In his address, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh commended the graduating cadets for their discipline, precision, and dedication. He highlighted the transformative nature of pre-commissioning training, which equips cadets with the skills, confidence, and attitude necessary to excel in their roles.
The CAS emphasized the evolving nature of warfare and the critical role of aerospace power in modern conflicts. He underscored the importance of teamwork, integrity, and fitness, urging the newly commissioned officers to uphold the highest traditions of the IAF. “You are the future leaders and commanders who will chart the destiny of the Indian Air Force,” he remarked, encouraging them to serve the nation with honor and pride.
A Day of Pride and Inspiration
The emotional moment of the parade was the “Pratham Pag” march of the newly commissioned officers to martial tunes, followed by their first salute from immediate juniors—a gesture symbolizing the passing of the torch of responsibility.
The Combined Graduation Parade concluded on a high note, leaving an indelible mark on the newly commissioned officers and their families. It not only commemorated the culmination of rigorous training but also marked the beginning of a life dedicated to the service of the nation, filled with honor, dignity, and pride.
For these young officers, the commissioning ceremony remains a defining milestone, heralding a lifetime of commitment to safeguarding India’s skies and upholding the ethos and values of the Indian Air Force.
