Imphal: Students should draw inspiration from the armed forces and consider joining the services, which offer a life of discipline, honour, adventure and selfless service to the nation, MLA Khumukcham Joykisan Singh said on Thursday.
He was speaking at the 94th Air Force Day celebration, organised by 1 Manipur Air Squadron NCC Imphal at MPP Hall, NCC Imphal, GP HQ. The theme of this year’s celebration was ‘Infallible, Impervious and Precise’.
Joykisan Singh said October 8 is observed across the country as Air Force Day to commemorate the establishment of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and honour air warriors who have served the nation.
He said the IAF was officially established on October 8, 1932, and has since developed from its early beginnings into a technologically advanced air force.
He said the IAF has demonstrated its capabilities during major conflicts, including the wars of 1947, 1965 and 1971 and the Kargil War of 1999.
He added that during times of peace and crisis, the force has also served as a first responder during floods and earthquakes and in evacuating Indian citizens stranded in conflict zones.
He also highlighted the IAF’s humanitarian relief missions and said its motto, “Touch the Sky with Glory”, represented the vision of its personnel.
Joykisan Singh called for tributes to the martyrs who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty and expressed gratitude to serving air warriors and their families for their service.
Speaking on the occasion, Wing Commander Mutum Sandip Singh, Commanding Officer of 1 Manipur Air Squadron NCC Imphal, said Air Force Day was an occasion to remember and pay tribute to those who had served the nation.
He said the IAF had responded to challenges ranging from defending the country’s skies during conflicts to providing humanitarian assistance and disaster relief during crises.
He paid tribute to fallen personnel and acknowledged the contributions of veterans and their families. He also said the IAF had continued to adopt modern technology, innovation and advanced operational capabilities while retaining its core values of integrity, service and excellence.
The programme featured videos on the journey of the IAF, along with cultural performances including songs and dances.
Brigadier Vikrant Kulkarni, Group Commander, NCC Group Headquarters Imphal; Group Captain Binoy Chongtham (Retd.); Nancy Sharma, CTO, Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Khumbong; air veterans, officers, staff members and cadets were among those present.
Also Read: Explained: Why Mizoram’s autonomous councils are under severe financial crisis