Kohima: Unusual sounds of aircraft have stirred curiosity and concern in Nagaland, as residents were surprised by the unexpected presence of military aircraft in the skies.
Given the rarity of such incidents in the state, residents turned to social media platforms to share their observations and seek clarification regarding the purpose of the aerial maneuvers.
When contacted, an Indian Air Force (IAF) official confirmed with EastMojo that this was part of an ongoing pan India air exercise conducted by the IAF.
However, specific details regarding the nature and purpose of the exercise were not disclosed.
While the official refrained from disclosing further details, the source mentioned that “maximum assets” of the IAF are participating in the exercise.
Another defence official indicated that the activity was linked to the “Gagan Shakti” exercise.
A recent statement issued by the Indian Army informed that the army has been providing logistic support to the IAF for its mega Exercise Gagan Shakti- 2024.
The 10-day exercise began on April 1. The exercise is organised at different locations of the country, encompassing both Western and Northern fronts.
The Indian Army had said that it facilitated a comprehensive pan India move of approximately 10,000 IAF personnel and ammunition in order to validate the Operational Rail Mobilisation Plan (ORMP) aspects of the IAF.
This involved formulation and facilitation of rail move plan from various clusters pan India for onward and return journey as per Operational Plan.
Meanwhile, as part of the ongoing exercise, IAF aircraft recently conducted operations from the Emergency Landing Facility (ELF) in the northern sector of the Kashmir valley.
Dear Reader,
Every day, our team at EastMojo travels through rain, rough roads, and remote hills to bring you stories that matter – stories from your town, your people, your Northeast.
We do this because we believe in truthful, independent journalism. No big corporate backing, no government pressure – just honest reporting by local journalists who live and breathe the same air you do.
But to keep doing this work, we need you. Your small contribution helps us pay our reporters fairly, reach places others ignore, and keep asking the tough questions.
If you believe the Northeast deserves its own fearless voice, stand with us.
Support independent journalism. Be a Member.
Thank you,
Karma Paljor
Editor-in-Chief, eastmojo.com
As per reports, ‘Gagan Shakti’ was last held in 2018. During the two-phase air maneuvers, the IAF had conducted over 11,000 sorties.
Also Read | NDPP chief issues apology for Eastern Nagaland remark