India celebrates 83rd Air Force Day

Indian Air Force (IAF) on 8 October 2015 celebrated its 83rd foundation day at the Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.
Significance of Day: It was celebrated for first in 1932 as an auxiliary air force of Indian Empire. The celebration of day seeks to increase the awareness about the importance of IAF as an important part of the national security.
Celebrations: The Air Force Day Parade was held at the base along with the investiture ceremony. The Air Force Warrior drill team including women officers displayed rifle handling skills along with march past as part of the parade. Various airplanes of the IAF were on display.
The re-constituted Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team which was showcased for the first time. Also, planes like the Sukhoi-30 MKI, MIG-21, MIG-29, Globemaster, Hercules and Mirage 2000 performed multiple maneuvers.
Cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar was also present at the ceremony. He was designated as post of Honorary Group Captain in the IAF in 2010. He is the first sportsperson to be honoured with such distinction by IAF.
Hindon Air Force Base: This base is located in Ghaziabad in Uttar Pradesh and is under the Western Air Command. It is the biggest and largest air base in Asia and 8th in the world. It is located on the outskirts of the Hindon River.

Month: Current Affairs - October, 2015