SPEECH BY SHRI K.R.NARAYANAN, PRESIDENT OF INDIA, WHILE PRESENTING COLOURS TO AIR FORCE ADMINISTRATIVE COLLEGE AND STANDARD TO 35 SQUADRON OF INDIAN AIR FORCE,

BAREILLY, TUESDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2000

Shri Suraj Bhan, Governor Uttar Pradesh,

Shri George Fernandes, Raksha Mantri,Shri Harin Pathak, Raksha Utpadan Rajya Mantri, Air Chief Marshal Tipnis,Officers and Men of the Indian Air Force andDistinguished Guests,

It gives me immense pleasure to be with you today to present the Colours to the Air Force Administrative College, and Standard to 35 Squadron. These two units have continued their relentless pursuit of excellence and have set an example for others to emulate. For their selfless dedication, professionalism and supreme sacrifices, the nation honours them today. A strong defence is always essential for peace and no nation can achieve prosperity without it. Though we stand firmly committed to peace, we will safeguard our sovereignty with all our might. Our armed forces, exemplified by the men and women who stand before us, reflect our determination to protect our vital interests. We do not wish or encourage conflict, but should it be forced upon us, I am confident that our armed forces will rise to the occasion valiantly and bring glory to the nation as they have always done in the past.

The Air Force Administrative College which has been in existence for over 50 years, enjoys the distinction of being one of the oldest training institutions for officers in the IAF. I am pleased to know that through its portals have passed out a very large number of officers, many of whom are occupying high positions in our Air Force. 35 Squadron, which was raised in 1958 as a bomber squadron equipped with Canberra aircraft, has a specialised role today. The fact that the Squadron, in its present role, is the only one in the IAF to have operated two different types of combat aircraft, Canberra and MIG 21M, is a unique legacy of the unit.

In acknowledgement and recognition of their outstanding performance, I award the Colours to Air Force Administrative College and the Standard to 35 Squadron. On this occasion, I extend my felicitations to all personnel of these premier units. I also compliment you on your excellent turnout and drill and take the opportunity to convey my best wishes to your families, who have contributed in a large measure in all your endeavours. The nation is proud of you.  

Thank you