PM Modi in Varanasi: Mega Air Show and New Garment Unit Launch
PM Modi visits Varanasi to launch a Rs 100 crore garment unit and witness the 'Wings Over Ganga' Air Force Day aerial display.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is arriving in Varanasi today, October 25, 2026, for a high-energy itinerary that blends industrial empowerment with a spectacular celebration of India's aerial prowess. The PM Modi Varanasi visit will see the national leader inaugurating a major manufacturing facility and witnessing a grand display of military strength on the banks of the holy river Ganga.
Boosting Employment: The Arvind Limited Garment Unit
The day begins at approximately 11:00 a.m. in Khochwan, Mirzamurad, where the Prime Minister will officially open a state-of-the-art garment manufacturing unit. Operated by Arvind Limited, this facility represents a significant investment of roughly Rs 100 crore.
The unit is specialized for the production of innerwear and sportswear. Beyond the infrastructure, the project carries a strong social objective: it is expected to create jobs for more than 1,000 people. A primary focus of this employment drive is the empowerment of women in the region, aiming to give a substantial boost to local industrial growth and female workforce participation.
'Wings Over Ganga': A Tribute to the IAF
By 1:00 p.m., the action shifts to Namo Ghat for the 'Air Force Day Aerial Display-2026.' This mega event, titled 'Wings Over Ganga,' marks the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force. The Prime Minister will attend the show as the chief guest, accompanied by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath.
The skies over Varanasi are set to roar with the sound of India's most sophisticated aircraft. The display will feature:
- Advanced Fighters: Precision maneuvers by the Rafale, Sukhoi-30 MKI, and the indigenous Tejas.
- Attack Capabilities: Demonstrations by the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand.
- Specialized Teams: Breathtaking formations by the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team and the Sarang Helicopter Display Team.
Adding to the grandeur, units from the Indian Navy and the Indian Army will also participate in this joint celebration of national security.
Tight Security and Unusual Restrictions
Given the scale of the event and the VVIP presence, the city of Varanasi is under a strict security blanket. Approximately 12,000 security personnel and police officers have been deployed to ensure everything runs smoothly.
To manage the crowds and the movement of the convoy, local authorities have implemented a detailed traffic plan. This includes various route diversions and specific restrictions on the Rajghat bridge between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m.
The 'Bird-Strike' Precaution
In a unique move to ensure the safety of the pilots and the aircraft during the aerial maneuvers, the administration took an unusual step to minimize the risk of bird strikes. From October 19 to October 25, the sale of fish and meat was prohibited within a 20 to 30-kilometer radius of Namo Ghat to prevent birds from gathering in large numbers near the flight paths.
After completing his engagements in Varanasi, Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to fly to Bhubaneswar, Odisha, for his next set of official commitments.