The Air Force Academy hosted the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) for the 216th Course, which celebrated the commissioning of 244 Flight Cadets, including 29 women. General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff, presided over the event, highlighting the significance of this milestone for the cadets as they embark on their careers in the Indian Air Force.
The ceremony showcased the collaborative spirit of the Indian armed forces, with six officers from the Indian Navy, eight from the Indian Coast Guard, and two officers from Vietnam receiving the esteemed Aviators Wings. This diverse representation underscores the Academy’s commitment to fostering international military relations and a unified approach to defense.
A standout moment of the parade was the historic flypast led by the Chief of the Air Staff, featuring the ‘Kiran’ formation. This aerial display not only exemplified the traditions and leadership of the Indian Air Force but also served to inspire the newly commissioned officers as they took their first steps into military service.
The event concluded with an impressive performance by the Sarang Helicopter Display Team and the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team, showcasing the operational prowess and discipline of the Indian Air Force. Their synchronized maneuvers added a spectacular finish to the day’s celebrations.
Amid the celebrations, numerous cadets were recognized for their exceptional achievements. The President’s Plaque and the Nawanagar Sword of Honour for the top performer in Overall Order of Merit (Pilot Course) were awarded to Fg Offr Tanishk Aggarwal. Other notable winners included Fg Offr Saksham Dobriyal, who received the President’s Plaque for the Navigation Stream, and Fg Offr Nitesh Kumar, who was honored for top performance in the Ground Duty Officers Course.
Additional awards recognized excellence across various streams, including flying, weapon systems, administration, logistics, accounts, education, and meteorology. Cadets such as Fg Offr Harsh Pathak and Fg Offr Hima KH were also acknowledged for outstanding contributions within their respective branches.
The CGP highlighted the Indian Air Force’s unwavering dedication to developing highly skilled and motivated officers, ready to face the complex challenges of modern air and joint warfare with professionalism and integrity.
