Hyderabad, Dec 14 (UNI) The Air Force Academy (AFA) in Dundigal, Hyderabad, hosted the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) on Saturday, marking the successful completion of pre-commissioning training for flight cadets of the Flying and Ground Duty branches of the Indian
Air Force (IAF).
The parade was reviewed by Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), who conferred the President's Commission to the graduating flight cadets.
A total of 204 cadets graduated during the ceremony, comprising 178 men and 26 women.
The event also witnessed the commissioning of nine officers from the Indian Navy, nine from the Indian Coast Guard, and one officer from a friendly foreign country who were awarded ‘Wings’ upon completing their flying training. Notably, this event marked a historic moment for the IAF with the commissioning of the first batch of Weapon Systems Branch officers.
The Chief of the Air Staff was welcomed by Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command, and Air Marshal S. Shrinivas, Commandant of the Academy. The parade commenced with a General Salute to the Reviewing Officer (RO), followed by an impressive march past.
The highlight of the ceremony was the 'Commissioning Ceremony,' during which the graduating cadets were awarded their ranks by the RO. They took an oath, administered by the Commandant, pledging to safeguard the sovereignty and honour of the nation.
The event was further enriched by a synchronized flypast featuring Pilatus PC-7 MkII, Hawk, Kiran, and Chetak aircraft, showcasing the precision and professionalism of the IAF.
Exceptional achievements were recognized during the parade. Flying Officer Parag Dhankar of the Flying Branch was awarded the 'President's Plaque' and the prestigious 'Chief of the Air Staff Sword of Honour' for his top performance in the pilots' course. Flying Officer Ram Prasad Gurjar received the 'President's Plaque' for excellence in the Ground Duty Branch.
In his address, the CAS commended the cadets for their immaculate turnout and discipline, acknowledging the rigorous training that transformed them into confident and skilled officers.
Highlighting the evolving nature of warfare, he emphasized the importance of aerospace power, teamwork, and integrity. "You are the future leaders and commanders, and you will chart the destiny of the IAF,” he said, urging the officers to uphold the ethos and traditions of the Air Force throughout their careers.
The parade concluded with the emotional "Pratham Pag" march, where the newly commissioned officers took their first steps into the Air Force, cheered on by their proud families and immediate juniors. The first salute from their juniors added a special touch to the occasion.
The grand finale featured a breathtaking display by a PC-7 MK-II and SU-30 MkI aircraft, complemented by aerobatic performances by the Sarang helicopter display team and the
Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT), leaving the audience spellbound.
For the newly commissioned officers, the ceremony marked a pivotal moment, symbolizing their dedication to a life of honour, pride, and service to the nation. It remains a cherished milestone in their careers and a proud memory for their families, a defence statement said.
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