Historic Moment as President Droupadi Murmu to Award President’s Standard and Colours to Four Indian Air Force Units

New Delhi:  In a historic event set to take place on March 8, 2024, the President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, who serves as the Supreme Commander of the Indian Armed Forces, will bestow the prestigious President’s Standard and Colours upon four distinguished units of the Indian Air Force at Air Force Station Hindan. This landmark occasion marks the first time in the history of the Indian Air Force that four units will be simultaneously honored with the President’s Standard and Colours.

A curtain-raiser press conference was held today in New Delhi to provide insights into the upcoming President’s Standard and Colours Presentation ceremony. Air Marshal PM Sinha, AOC-in-C Western Air Command, graced the occasion alongside the commanders of the four recipient units. The press conference aimed to shed light on the significance and gravity of the impending ceremony.

The President’s Standard and Colours are esteemed as the highest military honors bestowed upon Armed Forces Units. The selection of these units for such recognition stems from their meritorious services over the past 25 years. This accolade serves as a testament to the operational excellence, unwavering dedication, and proven contributions of these units, both in times of peace and war.

During the ceremony, the Hon’ble President, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, will present the President’s Standard to the 45 Squadron and the 221 Squadron. The President’s Colours will be awarded to the 11 Base Repair Depot and the 509 Signal Unit. The honor of receiving the President’s Standard will be bestowed upon Group Captain M Surendran, the Commanding Officer of the 45 Squadron, and Group Captain Shubhankan, the Commanding Officer of the 221 Squadron. Meanwhile, Air Commodore Ashutosh Vaidya, the Air Officer Commanding of the 11 Base Repair Depot, and Group Captain Vivek Sharma, the Commanding Officer of the 509 Signal Unit, will receive the President’s Colours.

This unprecedented event not only highlights the exceptional achievements of these units but also serves as an inspiration to the entire Indian Air Force. The President’s Standard and Colours are a symbol of honor, reflecting the bravery, dedication, and commitment of these units in safeguarding the nation’s security. The ceremony at Air Force Station Hindan promises to be a momentous occasion, celebrating the exemplary service and valor of the Indian Air Force.