President Pranab Mukherjee wishes IAF on 83rd anniversary

NEW DELHI: President Pranab Mukherjee today lauded the Indian Air Force ( IAF) for not only possessing excellent fighting capabilities but also for rendering yeoman services in hours of crisis as he wished the force on the eve of its 83rd anniversary.

Mukherjee specially underlines the role played by the IAF in rescuing Indians from war-torn Yemen, those displaced by the floods in Kashmir and those affected by the massive earthquake in Nepal early this year.

"The recent efforts of IAF to airlift our countrymen from Yemen, rescuing people during flash floods in Srinagar and the assistance rendered to the people of Nepal during the aftermath of a massive earthquake is praiseworthy. It bears testimony to IAF's glorious legacy of valour, courage and commitment.

"The nation remains indebted to the air-warriors for their selflessness and sacrifice. I am confident that the ongoing process of modernisation will transform the IAF into an even more potent and strategic force and it will continue to serve the nation with dedication and commitment," he said in his good wishes.

The force, he said, has remained the "vanguard" of the Indian skies safeguarding the sovereignty of the nation all through it's glorious history of eight decades.

"Over the years, IAF has evolved into a formidable force with new acquisitions and weapons of great precision. Today, IAF is rated one of the best in the world and has acquired the capability of strategic reach and precision targeting.

"In today's world order, the role of IAF is not only limited to fighting a war but also rendering timely assistance during national crisis. On numerous occasions in the past, during natural disasters, IAF has been at the forefront providing timely succour and relief," the President said.

He extended his greetings to IAF personnel, civilians and their families.

"I am proud of the achievements made by IAF over the years and wish it continued success in all its future endeavours," he said.