The Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) was conducted at the Air Force Academy (AFA) in Dundigal, Hyderabad on June 14, 2025, signifying the successful completion of pre-commissioning training for flight cadets of both Flying and Ground Duty branches of the Indian Air Force (IAF). Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), served as the Reviewing Officer (RO) and conferred the President’s Commission on the graduating cadets, a total of 254 officers including both men and women.
The CAS was received by Air Marshal Tejinder Singh, Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Training Command, and Air Marshal PK Vohra, Commandant of the Academy. The Reviewing Officer was presented with the General Salute, followed by a ceremonious and impeccably executed march past. As part of the ceremony, nine officers from the Indian Navy, seven from the Indian Coast Guard, and one trainee from a friendly foreign nation were also awarded ‘Wings’ upon completing their flying training.
The most poignant moment of the parade was the Commissioning Ceremony, during which cadets were formally commissioned as Flying Officers. They took the Oath of Allegiance administered by the Commandant, pledging to uphold the sovereignty and honour of the nation. The event featured spectacular displays by the Akash Ganga skydiving team, the Air Warrior Drill Team, and the Suryakiran aerobatic team. Fly-pasts by various trainer aircraft, including the Pilatus PC-7 MkII, Hawk, Kiran Mk-I, and Chetak, added to the grandeur.
In recognition of outstanding performance, Flying Officer Rohan Krishnamurti received the President’s Plaque and the Chief of the Air Staff Sword of Honour for topping the Pilot’s course. Flying Officer Nishtha Vaid was honoured with the President’s Plaque for securing the highest merit in the Ground Duty branches.
Addressing the newly commissioned officers, the CAS lauded their impeccable drill, discipline, and commitment, while also urging them to be prepared for the evolving nature of modern warfare and the increasing significance of aerospace power. Highlighting the success of Operation Sindoor, he reaffirmed the IAF’s role as the first responder in national crises and encouraged the officers to continuously strive for excellence and innovation.
Concluding his address, Air Chief Marshal Singh reminded the officers of the responsibilities their uniform represents, saying, “The battlespace of the future will be complex. Wear your uniform with honour, lead with courage, and uphold the core values of the Indian Air Force.”
The parade ended with the commissioned officers marching out in formation to martial tunes, marking a proud and emotional milestone in their careers. The CGP remains an unforgettable ceremony in the life of every Air Force officer, symbolising the beginning of a career defined by honour, courage, and service to the nation.
