Tezpur: President Pranab Mukherjee presented the prestigious Presidential Standard to 115 Helicopter Unit and 26 Squadron of the Indian Air Force in “recognition of their selfless devotion and outstanding performance both during the time of war and in peace”.
The Presidential Standard, considered one of the greatest honours for an Air Force Unit, was presented at a grand ceremonial parade at the strategically located Tezpur Air Force Station, on Friday.
Speaking at the Tezpur Air Force base he cautioned against various threats facing the subcontinent, and said India must be prepared to use its “might” if the need arises.
Mukherjee added that it was imperative for India to have an effective deterrence and strong defence to promote development.
The President, who is also the supreme commander of the armed forces, said though as a nation India was “firmly” committed to peace, “we must be prepared to use our might to safeguard the sovereignty of our nation, should the need ever arise.”
“We are a nation which believes in equality in all realms. The men and women who stand before us today epitomise our grit and determination towards this underlying cause. I am immensely proud of our Armed Forces for leading the path in this respect,” he said.
Â