Speech by the President of India, Shri Pranab Mukherjee at the President’s Standard/colours Presentation to 112 Helicopter Unit and 4 Base Repair Depot

1. I am very happy to be present here today at this premier maintenance base of the Indian Air Force to confer Standard to

‘112 Helicopter Unit’ and Colours to ‘No. 4 Base Repair Depot.’ Ever since their inception, these premier establishments have displayed a rich tradition of professional excellence and have rendered distinguished service to the Nation. In recognition of their dedication and devotion to service, the Nation honours them this day.

2. Indian Air Force has been commendably executing its mandate of protecting the Indian skies and safeguarding the sovereignty of our Nation. It has also remained at the forefront of providing relief and aid to our citizens during various natural calamities. The resilience and tenacity displayed by the Air Warriors both while undertaking operational commitments as well as during disaster relief contingencies is a great source of strength and also a matter of immense pride for the Nation.

3. As our Country progresses ahead on the path of continued economic growth, it is essential that we preserve peace. In order to ensure this we need the effective deterrence provided by a strong defence force. As a Nation we stand firmly committed to peace, stability and prosperity. But should a contingency arise, I am confident that our Armed Forces will valiantly rise to the occasion to meet all the security challenges. The Air Warriors, who smartly stand before us today epitomise the grit and determination of our Air Force in fulfilling their responsibilities towards the Nation by upholding the highest standards of service ethos. I place on record my deepest appreciation for all Air Warriors of the IAF for their devotion to duty, professionalism and a selfless spirit of service. I also take this opportunity to congratulate all the Air Warriors on parade for their impeccable drill and smart turnout which infact reflects the pride which they feel for the Air Force and the Nation.

4. Ladies and Gentlemen, 112 Helicopter Unit has an enviable operational history to its credit. As one of the first helicopter units of IAF raised in the Eastern Sector, it has served with distinction. Not only did it provide exceptional air support to our ground forces during the 1971 operations but its brave Air Warriors have also consistently executed daring high altitude rescue as well as air maintenance missions in the eastern Himalayan Sector. As a part of IPKF operations the unit’s personnel flew several daring missions which firmly established their professional credentials and earned them rich accolades. The unit is presently handling the important task of training the next generation of our helicopter crews who will handle the future security challenges to our Nation. I am confident that the unit will continue to grow from strength to strength in the years ahead.

5. No. 4 Base Repair Depot has been handling the important task of providing quality aeroengine maintenance support to many operational fleets of the IAF. Upon its inception, the Depot was tasked to repair and overhaul aeroengines for Vampire, Mystere and Toofani aircraft which represented the backbone of our fighter fleet at that time. Over the years the unit has significantly upgraded its capabilities by absorbing contemporary technologies and best technical practices. Today, the Depot is handling the aeroengine maintenance support requirements for the Kiran trainer, MiG-27 and the Mirage aircraft fleet. The fact that the Depot has till date overhauled over 7650 aeroengines while maintaining an enviable safety record reflects the professional ethos of its Air Warriors. I am confident that the unit will continue to better itself and competently address the future transformational challenges for the Air force.

6. In recognition of their outstanding performance over the years,

I am pleased to award Standard to 112 Helicopter Unit and Colours to 4 Base Repair Depot. I’m confident that these Units will continue to strive for excellence with professional zeal and serve the Nation selflessly in the years to come. On this occasion, I take the opportunity to compliment all the Air Warriors, Civilians and families of 112 HU and 4 BRD for their dedication and devotion to service. The Nation is indeed proud of you all. I wish you and your families the very best and a glorious future.

Thank you. 
Jai Hind.