Hyderabad: The Air Force Academy (AFA) Dundigal witnessed a momentous occasion today as 204 flight cadets, including 178 men and 26 women, were commissioned into the Indian Air Force (IAF) during the prestigious Combined Graduation Parade (CGP). The event marked the culmination of rigorous pre-commissioning training for the cadets in Flying and Ground Duty branches.
Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), officiated as the Reviewing Officer (RO), conferring the President’s Commission upon the graduating cadets. He was received by Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command, and Air Marshal S Shrinivas, Commandant, AFA. The ceremony began with a General Salute to the CAS, followed by an immaculate march past.
The CGP was particularly significant as it saw the commissioning of the first batch of Weapon Systems Branch officers into the IAF, underscoring the force’s evolving operational dynamics. Additionally, nine officers from the Indian Navy, nine from the Indian Coast Guard, and one from a friendly foreign nation were awarded their ‘Wings’ upon completing their flying training.
Flying Officer Parag Dhankar, excelling in the Flying branch, was awarded the prestigious ‘President’s Plaque’ and the ‘Chief of the Air Staff Sword of Honour’ for being first in the overall order of merit. Flying Officer Ram Prasad Gurjar was conferred the ‘President’s Plaque’ for topping the Ground Duty branch.
The parade featured an awe-inspiring flypast by four types of trainer aircraft—Pilatus PC-7 MkII, Hawk, Kiran, and Chetak. The event culminated with the “Pratham Pag” of the newly commissioned officers, marching in two columns to martial tunes, followed by their first salute from juniors.
Adding grandeur to the ceremony, the Sarang helicopter display team and the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) showcased synchronized aerobatics, leaving the audience captivated.
Addressing the parade, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh commended the graduating cadets for their discipline and crisp drill movements. He emphasized the critical role of aerospace power in modern warfare and the importance of teamwork, dedication, and integrity in their careers. “You are the future leaders and commanders, and you will chart the destiny of the IAF,” he remarked, urging the officers to uphold the IAF’s ethos, honour, and traditions.
For the graduating officers, the commissioning ceremony marks the beginning of a distinguished career dedicated to serving the nation with honour and pride. The presence of proud families added an emotional dimension to the ceremony, making it an unforgettable milestone in their journey.
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