October 8 marks the 91st anniversary of Indian Air Force. On this special occasion, Group Captain Shaliza Dhami lead the Indian Air Force’s parade at Air Force Station Bamrauli, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. This is for the first time when a women officer commanded the Indian Air Force Day Parade.
“It feels good to command the parade during the Air Force Day celebrations. It is through the efforts of all of us that celebrations were made a historic event,” said Group Captain Shaliza Dhami after she commanded IAF parade, as quoted by PTI.
VIDEO | "It feels good to command the parade during the Air Force Day celebrations. It is through the efforts of all of us that celebrations were made a historic event," says Group Captain Shaliza Dhami who commanded the IAF parade during #IndianAirForceDay celebrations. pic.twitter.com/pmjXPrRh7U
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) October 8, 2023
Shaliza Dhami is the first women officer in the Indian Air Force to get a permanent commission and also the first women to become Flight Commander. Group Captain Shaliza Dhami is also the first women IAF officer to get selected in front-line combat unit. Dhami got commissioned into Indian Air Force in 2003 and she is a qualified flying instructor. She is She also in-charge of a missile squadron in the Western sector.
On Sunday, IAF spokesperson Wing Commander Ashish Moghe said: “Also for the first time, the parade will have an all-women contingent consisting of the newly inducted Agniveer Vayu, who shall march shoulder to shoulder with their male counterparts. The parade also includes a flight of Garud commandos for the first time.”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also extended his good wishes to air warriors and their family members of Indian Air Force Day. He wrote on X, “Best wishes to all air warriors and their families on Air Force Day. India is proud of the valour, commitment and dedication of the Indian Air Force. Their great service and sacrifice ensure our skies are safe.”
Best wishes to all air warriors and their families on Air Force Day. India is proud of the valour, commitment and dedication of the Indian Air Force. Their great service and sacrifice ensure our skies are safe. pic.twitter.com/HJ5coUq2eP
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) October 8, 2023