Two-day IAF programme begins

From A Correspondent    

Shillong, Oct 1: A two-day programme to commemorate the 85th anniversary of the Indian Air Force (IAF) began at Eastern Air Command in Upper Shillong on Sunday. The programme saw different drills by the Air Force personnel. People from different walks of life from in and around the city came to witness the might of the IAF. The IAF celebrates its anniversary on 8th October every year. Talking to media persons, Wing Commander and Chief Public Relations Officer Simranpal Singh Birdi said that the event plays a major role in attracting the youth to take up job in the IAF.

IAF helicopters were been put on display that attracted the attention of the young and the old who took the opportunity to take photographs with their friends and family. An exhibition of different advanced weapons used by the IAF was also displayed.

The major attraction at the Advanced Landing Ground was Mi-17 and the ALH helicopters on display and most visitors found themselves in the cockpit of the aircraft, happily clicking away with their cameras.

Another area that attracted the visitors in large numbers was the stall set up by the GARUD commandos of the IAF, wherein their special weapons and equipment were on display.

Many visitors were keen to know about the planned flypast by helicopters and the Sukhoi-30, but were disappointed when told that it may not happen due to low clouds. The disappointment was soon reversed by afternoon when the sun broke clouds and a Mi-17 helicopter flew past and carried out a landing. This was followed by the flypast of a Su-30 MKI fighter.

The Indian Air Force has set up various stalls, including those for publicity and military souvenirs. Food stalls were a hit, as always. The festival continues will culmite on Monday.