Raksha Mantri Reviews Grand Combined Graduation Parade at Air Force Academy

Hyderabad, June 13: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh reviewed the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) of the 217th Course at the Air Force Academy (AFA), Dundigal, Hyderabad, on Saturday, marking the successful completion of pre-commissioning training for a new batch of Indian Air Force officers. A total of 231 Flight Cadets, including 194 men and 37 women, were commissioned as officers in the Indian Air Force during the prestigious ceremony.

The graduating batch also marked a historic milestone with the commissioning of the first batch of women cadets from the National Defence Academy (NDA) into the Indian Air Force. During the ceremony, the Raksha Mantri awarded the President’s Commission to the graduating cadets, formally inducting them into the Flying and Ground Duty branches of the IAF.

In addition to the IAF cadets, nine officers from the Indian Navy, three officers from the Indian Coast Guard, and two officers from the Socialist Republic of Vietnam were awarded their coveted ‘Wings’, signifying the successful completion of flying training. Three officers who completed their navigation training were also awarded ‘Brevets’.

Addressing the newly commissioned officers, Rajnath Singh congratulated them on achieving a significant milestone in their military careers and welcomed them to a force that has consistently served as both the shield and sword of the nation. He highlighted the Indian Air Force’s glorious history and its crucial role in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and national interests.

Recalling the IAF’s contributions during key military operations, the Raksha Mantri stated that the Air Force changed the course of the 1947-48 war in Jammu and Kashmir through the historic Srinagar airlift and played a decisive role during the 1971 war with its precision air operations. He also praised the IAF’s performance during Operation Sindoor 2025, where the force successfully carried out precision strikes on terror infrastructure.

“The Indian Air Force has repeatedly demonstrated courage, professionalism and operational excellence. During Operation Sindoor, our air warriors destroyed terror hideouts with remarkable precision and effectiveness. The success of the mission was made possible not only by advanced indigenous platforms but also by the skill, discipline and commitment of our officers,” he said.

Emphasising the changing nature of warfare, Rajnath Singh urged the newly commissioned officers to remain alert and adaptable in the face of emerging security challenges. He pointed out that modern warfare has become increasingly technology-driven, with threats often originating from unseen sources.

He explained that unlike traditional warfare, where combatants and weapons were visible, contemporary conflicts involve sophisticated systems such as drones, satellites, sensors, robotics and cyber technologies. He noted that critical infrastructure, including communication systems, transportation networks and surveillance platforms, can become targets in modern conflicts.

“The battlefield of today is constantly evolving. You must be prepared to face uncertainties and unexpected situations. The training you have received at the Academy has equipped you to deal with these challenges, but continuous learning and adaptability will remain essential throughout your careers,” he said.

The Raksha Mantri encouraged the young officers to embrace innovation and remain at the forefront of technological advancements. He stressed the importance of understanding, adapting and, when necessary, modifying future warfare systems and strategies to maintain a decisive advantage.

He observed that even smaller nations and non-state actors are increasingly capable of inflicting significant damage using compact yet highly effective technologies and unconventional tactics. Therefore, officers must combine hard work, smart thinking and innovation to stay ahead of potential adversaries.

Rajnath Singh reminded the officers that the wings they wear represent much more than professional achievement. “These wings symbolize the trust and faith of every Indian citizen. As military leaders, you will often be required to make critical decisions within seconds. Your professionalism, integrity and dedication must always inspire confidence among those you lead,” he said.

A special mention was made of the growing participation of women in the armed forces. Congratulating the women officers, including the first women graduates from NDA to join the Air Force, the Raksha Mantri said that the increasing presence of Nari Shakti is strengthening the operational capabilities and diversity of the Indian Air Force.

“This reflects the strength of our inclusive military structure and demonstrates the important role women are playing in India’s defence and security,” he stated.

The Raksha Mantri also extended his best wishes to the Vietnamese officers who completed their training at the Academy. He expressed confidence that their training in India would further strengthen defence ties and friendship between India and Vietnam.

Rajnath Singh lauded the Indian Air Force for its humanitarian efforts and disaster relief operations both within the country and abroad. He noted that the force has consistently demonstrated India’s commitment to helping people in times of crisis, irrespective of nationality, language or geographical boundaries.

Concluding his address, the Raksha Mantri encouraged the newly commissioned officers to dream big and strive for excellence. Referring to the popular saying that “the sky is the limit,” he remarked that for the Indian Air Force, “the sky is our home.” He expressed confidence that the dedication, professionalism and innovation of the young officers would contribute significantly to strengthening national security and achieving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.

The ceremony was attended by senior military officers, distinguished guests and proud family members who witnessed the commissioning of the new generation of air warriors ready to serve the nation with courage, honour and commitment.