Modi, Rajnath Singh to grace Air Force Day celebrations in Varanasi

New Delhi — Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh are set to attend the Air Force Day celebrations in Varanasi on Tuesday, marking a significant ceremonial occasion for the nation's air arm. The event will draw heightened security presence across key areas of the city, including the ghats and designated VVIP routes, authorities confirmed.

The aerial display will feature some of India's most advanced aircraft, including the indigenously developed Tejas light combat aircraft, the newly inducted Light Combat Helicopter Prachand, and the multi-role SU-30MKI fighter jets. The Rafale, France's state-of-the-art combat aircraft recently inducted into the IAF, will also feature in the demonstration alongside transport aircraft.

The Air Force Day parade, held annually on October 8 to commemorate the IAF's establishment, provides a platform to showcase the service's operational capabilities and technological advancement. The choice of Varanasi, the Prime Minister's parliamentary constituency, underscores the political significance attached to the event.

Security agencies have intensified measures ahead of the celebration, with special attention to movement along the Ganga ghats and critical thoroughfares expected to be used by the VVIP motorcades. Additional personnel have been deployed to manage crowds and ensure smooth conduct of the aerial display.