On December 17, 2023, the Air Force Academy in Dundigal, Telangana, witnessed the grand Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) of 213 Flight Cadets, including 25 women, from the flying and ground duty branches of the Indian Air Force (IAF). The event, graced by Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh, celebrated the successful conclusion of the trainees’ rigorous training.
Shri Rajnath Singh, who reviewed the parade, also had the honor of conferring the President’s Commission to these newly minted officers. The CGP also saw eight officers from the Indian Navy, nine from the Indian Coast Guard, and two international trainees receive their ‘Wings’ post their flying training.
In his inspiring address, Shri Rajnath Singh commended the officers for their impeccable parade standards and advised them to remain open to new ideas and innovation. He stressed the importance of balancing tradition with innovation in the armed forces, warning against the risks of stagnation if traditions are followed without critical thinking.
The Defence Minister emphasized the need for a dynamic approach, likening the officers to a flowing river, constantly evolving and innovating while staying grounded in their roots. He encouraged the officers to soar to new heights while maintaining their connection with foundational values.
The parade commenced with Shri Rajnath Singh’s arrival and a General Salute, followed by an impressive march past. The Commissioning Ceremony was a poignant moment, with Shri Rajnath Singh awarding ‘Stripes’ to the graduating Flight Cadets. The Commandant of the Academy administered the ‘Oath’ to the graduating officers.
The CGP featured an awe-inspiring fly-past by trainer aircraft including Pilatus PC-7 Mk II, Hawk, Kiran, and Chetak helicopters. Shri Rajnath Singh also presented awards to trainees who excelled in various disciplines. Flying Officer Atul Prakash from the flying branch was awarded the President’s Plaque and Chief of the Air Staff Sword of Honour. Flying Officer Amrinder Jeet Singh received the President’s Plaque for his outstanding performance in the ground duty branches.
The parade culminated with the officers marching out in slow march to Rabindranath Tagore’s ‘Anandaloke’, followed by a breathtaking aerobatic display by the Su-30MKI, the Sarang helicopter team, and the SuryaKiran Aerobatic Team, providing a fitting end to the momentous occasion.
