IAF Day Parade Welcomes First Woman Officer as Lead

In a historic moment, Group Captain Shaliza Dhami, a helicopter pilot and the first woman to command a frontline IAF combat unit, is set to lead the Indian Air Force (IAF) Day parade. The parade marks the service's 91st anniversary and will take place at the Air Force station in Bamrauli, Prayagraj.

Breaking Gender Barriers

Group Captain Shaliza Dhami's leadership of the IAF Day parade symbolizes a significant step in breaking gender barriers within the Indian armed forces. Women in uniform are increasingly being assigned central roles on par with their male counterparts.

Diverse Parade Lineup

This year's IAF Day parade will feature an all-women contingent, known as the Agniveer Vayu, who will march shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts. Additionally, the parade will include a flight of Garud commandos, marking another first for the event.

Expanding Opportunities for Women

The armed forces in India are progressively opening up more opportunities for women. Women officers are now joining special forces units, such as the Garud commando force and Marine Commandos, provided they meet the selection criteria.

New IAF Ensign Unveiled

Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, the IAF chief, will unveil the air force's new ensign in Prayagraj. The updated ensign features the IAF crest in the top right corner and replaces the previous ensign that had been in use for over seven decades.

Spectacular Flypast

The IAF Day celebrations will include a spectacular flypast over Sangam in Prayagraj, featuring around 110 aircraft, including the IAF's latest C-295 transport plane. The lineup includes various aircraft, from Rafales and Sukhoi-30s to Apaches and Hawks.

Shifting Parade Locations

It's worth noting that the IAF Day celebrations have been moved outside the national capital, with the parade traditionally held at the Hindan air base. This shift aligns with the trend of the three services organizing their flagship ceremonial events in different locations. In conclusion, Group Captain Shaliza Dhami's leadership and the diverse lineup of the IAF Day parade represent significant milestones in the Indian Air Force's history, reflecting a commitment to gender equality and modernization.

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