INDIAN AIR FORCE DAY: OCTOBER 8

INDIAN AIR FORCE DAY:  OCTOBER 8

Context:

Indian Air Force Day is observed on October 8 and this year marks the 89th anniversary of its founding. This day is seen with great enthusiasm at many Air Force bases across the country.

Significance of the Day:

• The day commemorates the establishment of the Indian Air Force (IAF) to assist the armed forces.
• The day also aims to raise awareness of the Indian Air Force, also known as ‘Bhartiya Vayu Sena’, as an organization dedicated to improving security with national authorities.

About Indian Air Force (IAF):

• It is an arm of the Indian armed forces.
•  Its complement of personnel and aircraft assets ranks 4th amongst the air forces of the world.
• It was officially established on October 8, 1932, as a British Air Force auxiliary airline honouring Indian aviation service during World War II with the prefix Royal.

Purpose of the IAF:

• Its main function is to protect the Indian airport and to carry out airstrikes during conflicts.

IAF History:

• After India gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1947, the name Royal Royal Air Force was retained and operated on behalf of the Dominion of India.
• With the change of government in the Republic in 1950, the prefix Royal was removed.
• Since 1950, the IAF has fought 4 wars with neighbouring Pakistan.
• Other major operations undertaken by the IAF include Operation Meghdoot, Operation Cactus, Operation Vijay, and Operation Poomalai.