IAF Unveils New Flag on 91st Foundation Day

Tags: Defence

Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari unveiled the new flag of the Indian Air Force during the 91st Air Force Day Parade in Prayagraj on October 8, 2023.

An Overview of the News

• The theme of the 91st Air Force Day is 'IAF - Airpower Beyond Boundaries'.

Features of the new flag:

• The new flag features the national emblem Ashoka symbol prominently on the fly side, at the top right corner, just above the Air Force crest.

• 'Satyamev Jayate' is inscribed in the Devanagari script below the Ashoka symbol.

• The Himalayan Garuda with outstretched wings symbolizes the combat capabilities of the Indian Air Force.

• There is a light blue circle around the Himalayan Garuda with 'Indian Air Force' written on it.

• The motto of the Indian Air Force, 'Nabh Sprisham Deeptam', is inscribed in golden Devanagari letters below the Garuda, signifying the aspiration to "To touch the sky with splendour".

Retirement of the Old Flag:

• During the Air Force Day Parade, the 72-year-old flag was lowered with full respect.

• The retired flag will be preserved in a museum as a historical artifact.

Historical Background of Indian Air Force:

• The Indian Air Force was established on October 8, 1932, and its first flight took place on April 1, 1933.

• Subroto Mukherjee, one of the founding members, is recognized as the "Father of the Indian Air Force" and became the first Chief of the Air Staff on April 1, 1954 after India gained independence.

• The headquarters of the Indian Air Force is located in Delhi.

• Before India's independence, the force was known as the Royal Indian Air Force and was later renamed the Indian Air Force.

• The Indian Air Force has played a significant role in various wars, including the Kargil conflict in 1947, 1948, 1965, 1971 and 1999.