On December 14, 2024, the Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) took place at the Air Force Academy (AFA) in Dundigal, Hyderabad, marking the successful completion of pre-commissioning training for flight cadets in the Flying and Ground Duty branches of the Indian Air Force (IAF). Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), officiated as the Reviewing Officer (RO) of the parade and conferred the President’s Commission to the graduating cadets. A total of 204 cadets, including 178 men and 26 women, graduated on this occasion.
The CAS was welcomed by Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command, and Air Marshal S. Shrinivas, Commandant of the AFA. The parade began with a General Salute to the RO, followed by a grand march past.
In addition to IAF cadets, nine officers from the Indian Navy, nine from the Indian Coast Guard, and one from a friendly foreign nation were awarded ‘Wings’ upon successful completion of their flying training. The event was historic, as it marked the commissioning of the first batch of Weapon Systems Branch officers into the IAF.
The highlight of the ceremony was the ‘Commissioning Ceremony,’ during which the graduating cadets received their ranks from the RO. The cadets also took an Oath of Allegiance, pledging to defend the sovereignty and honor of the country. The parade featured a synchronized flypast by Pilatus PC-7 MkII, Hawk, Kiran, and Chetak aircraft, adding to the grandeur of the event.
Several awards were presented to cadets for their exceptional performance during training. Flying Officer Parag Dhankar from the Flying branch was awarded the prestigious ‘President’s Plaque’ and ‘Chief of the Air Staff Sword of Honour’ for ranking first in the pilot’s course, while Flying Officer Ram Prasad Gurjar received the ‘President’s Plaque’ for ranking first in the Ground Duty branch.
In his address, the RO commended the graduating officers for their discipline, confidence, and skills gained during their training. He emphasized the importance of teamwork, integrity, and physical fitness in their future careers. The CAS highlighted the evolving nature of warfare and the crucial role of aerospace power, urging the cadets to uphold the values and traditions of the IAF as future leaders.
The parade concluded with the newly commissioned officers marching proudly, marking the beginning of their service in the Indian Air Force. The event’s grand finale featured an aerial display by the PC-7 Mk-II, SU-30 MKI aircraft, as well as aerobatic performances by the Sarang helicopter team and the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT).
For the graduating officers, this day remains a milestone in their careers, as they embark on a life of honor and service to the nation.
