New Delhi, Oct 2026 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday extended warm greetings to the Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel and their families on the occasion of Air Force Day, praising the courage, dedication and commitment of the country’s air warriors in protecting India’s skies.
In a post on X, Modi said the nation was proud of the IAF and saluted its personnel for their service and determination.
“India is proud of our Air Warriors. On Air Force Day, we salute their courage and commitment to protect our skies!” the Prime Minister said.
In a video message, Modi congratulated air warriors and their families, acknowledging the challenging and unpredictable nature of operations in the skies.
“I congratulate all the air warriors and their families from the bottom of my heart who have served the country,” Modi said.
He said the IAF’s ability to demonstrate its strength in the skies had attracted the attention of citizens and contributed to a sense of security across the country.
“Things in the sky are always unpredictable,” Modi said, adding that the IAF had showcased its capabilities while continuing to safeguard the nation.
Air Force Day is observed every year on October 8 to commemorate the establishment of the Indian Air Force. The IAF was officially established on October 8, 1932, as the Royal Indian Air Force under British rule.
Since Independence, the force has evolved into a major component of India’s defence structure, with its responsibilities extending from air defence and combat operations to strategic airlift, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah also extended greetings to IAF personnel on the occasion.
“Salutations to the Warriors of Our Skies on the glorious occasion of Indian Air Force Day,” Shah said in a post on X.
He praised the force for its valour, precision and operational capabilities and paid tribute to personnel who had made the supreme sacrifice in service of the nation.
Shah said the patriotism and professionalism of India’s air warriors would continue to inspire generations. He also remembered the martyrs who had laid down their lives while serving the country.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath also greeted the IAF and its personnel.
“From the infinite heights of the sky to the nation's borders, the Indian Air Force, the embodiment of valour, strength, and resolve, is the pride of us all,” Adityanath said in a post on X.
He extended his heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the brave air warriors and their families.
The IAF, the air arm of the Indian Armed Forces, has played a central role in India’s national defence since its establishment. Over the decades, it has participated in major military operations and has expanded its capabilities through the induction of advanced aircraft, helicopters, air-defence systems and other technologies.
Air Force Day also provides an opportunity to recognise the contribution of personnel working behind the scenes, including ground crews, engineers, technicians and support staff whose efforts are essential to maintaining operational readiness.
The occasion is marked by ceremonial events and air displays that showcase the capabilities of the force and honour its personnel.
The messages from Modi, Shah and Adityanath highlighted the importance of the IAF’s role in national security while recognising the sacrifices and dedication of its personnel and their families.
