Wings Over Ganges: PM Modi Joins IAF’s Grand Aerial Show in Varanasi
PM Narendra Modi visits Varanasi for the 'Wings Over Ganges' aerial display celebrating 94 years of the Indian Air Force.
Varanasi is gearing up for a spectacular display of aerial prowess as Prime Minister Narendra Modi arrives in the city to witness the Wings Over Ganges aerial display. The event, marking the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force (IAF), promises to be a breathtaking showcase of India's military strength and technological advancement over the holy city.
Rajnath Singh Welcomes the Prime Minister
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh extended a warm welcome to Prime Minister Modi, emphasizing the deep significance of the event. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the Defence Minister highlighted that Kashi is the perfect backdrop for such a celebration, describing the city as a symbol of a strong, self-reliant, and resurgent "New India."
Singh noted that the 'Wings Over Ganges' event is not just a celebration of 94 glorious years of the IAF, but a demonstration of the valour and might of the force that protects India's skies.
A Sky Full of Power: The Aircraft on Display
The skies over Varanasi are set to be filled with the roar of engines and precision maneuvers. The Wings Over Ganges aerial display will feature a diverse fleet of aircraft, showcasing the IAF's operational versatility:
- Premier Display Teams: The renowned Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) and the Sarang Helicopter Display Team will lead the spectacle. In fact, the Surya Kiran team has already begun taking to the skies in preparation for the main event.
- Frontline Fighters: The formidable Rafale and SU-30MKI fighter jets will be among the highlights.
- Indigenous and Strategic Assets: The display will include the Tejas LCA, the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand, and heavy-lifters like the IL-76, IL-78, C-295, and AN-32.
In a show of inter-service synergy, aircraft from the Indian Navy and the Indian Army are also expected to participate, highlighting the "jointness" of India's armed forces in modern operations.
Beyond the Skies: PM Modi's Varanasi Itinerary
While the aerial show at Namo Ghat is the centerpiece of the visit, Prime Minister Modi has a packed schedule in his parliamentary constituency. Following his arrival on October 25, the Prime Minister is expected to travel via Army helicopter to Arvind Mills to inaugurate a new garment manufacturing facility, boosting local industry.
A Grand Welcome in Kashi
The city has been draped in excitement to welcome the Prime Minister. In a modern twist to traditional receptions, members of Generation Z in Kashi have organized a multi-point welcome, planning to shower rose petals on the PM's convoy.
The scheduled roadshow will commence at the Police Lines, winding through the Cultural Complex and Chowkaghat, before culminating at Namo Ghat, where the Prime Minister will attend the event as the Chief Guest.