Fellow citizens! On the 76th anniversary of the Indian Air Force, I extend warm greetings to each and every one of you.

The Indian Air Force is one of the oldest independently functioning Air Forces of the world. It has grown from very humble beginnings, to be a very respected and professional force, whose competence is recognised worldwide. The passage of years has not been easy. Conceived in difficulty, traumatic in transition through the years, and blooded in battle, the Indian Air Force has indeed come a long way.

Whether it is UN Missions in Congo, a Sarang helicopter display in Europe, Su-30s and Garuds in the USA or the Mirages in South Africa, the professionalism and capability of the IAF is spoken of with respect. We have come to the aid of our countrymen in times of calamity, and to our neighbours, when timely assistance was essential. Today, the IAF has made its presence felt all over the world.

The primary job of the Indian Air Force is, to deter any misadventure by potential adversaries and inflict unacceptable pain if they do. Right from its inception, the IAF has done just that. It rose to the occasion immediately after independence, and saved Jammu & Kashmir. It fought off aggression in the many wars since, right up to Kargil and has kept Indian Air Space & borders inviolate.

Indian Air Force aircraft have very often appeared as saviors to countless people in innumerable distress situations. Our country has experienced a great number of natural disasters, which have unfortunately led to great loss of life and property. The Indian Air Force has provided humanitarian aid and succour in the form of food, supplies, shelter and rescue and have literally been angels of mercy.

The Indian Air Force is now 76 years old. Imbued with a rich heritage and ethos, it has, to its credit, glorious traditions of technological innovations and performance, in the face of varied hardships. We have demonstrated un-rivalled adaptability and resilience and surprised professionals the world over. Our tactics and bold innovations have combined to create a potent force, that provides credible response options to our National leadership.

Today the IAF is in the process of transformation. A large variety of aircraft, sensors, weapons, communication equipment and infrastructure are in varying stages of induction. The Indian Air Force will very shortly acquire enhanced capabilities and leapfrog a generation ahead. Whilst the process may appear slow and laborious, we know that we spend taxpayer’s money and we want to get it right.

And finally, the greatest asset that we have, is the quality of our personnel. They have been the true force multipliers and are responsible for having brought us to the point where we are today. We thank our forefathers for their intrepid vision and daring, and for having steered the Air Force through turbulent times. I am truly proud of the Air Warriors of the Indian Air Force and exhort them to maintain the highest standards in their endeavours.

The Indian Air Force has played a significant role in enhancing India’s stature by contributing directly and indirectly to the nation’s security as well as economic and foreign policy. In conclusion, I want to assure all our citizens, that the Indian Air Force is a very capable Air Force and they can feel justifiably proud of its achievements.

Jai Hind!