Sujanpur, January 29:
The skies over Sujanpur will soon echo with the thunder of Indian Air Force fighter jets as Himachal Pradesh prepares to witness its first-ever civil air display by the Indian Air Force. The prestigious Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) will perform breathtaking aerial stunts on March 10 at the grounds of Sainik School Sujanpur Tira, marking a historic moment for the state.
The event has received formal approval from the Union Defence Minister, making it a rare and memorable occasion, as the Indian Air Force conducts such civil air displays at only a limited number of locations across the country.
In preparation for the grand event, Deputy Commissioner Gandharva Rathore chaired a coordination meeting at the Mini Secretariat on Thursday with district administration officials, representatives of the Indian Air Force, and Sainik School authorities. Sujanpur MLA Captain Ranjit Singh attended the meeting as a special invitee and offered several valuable suggestions regarding event arrangements.
The Deputy Commissioner informed that Air Force officials have already conducted a preliminary inspection of the Sujanpur Chaugan and nearby areas and declared the location fully suitable for the civil air display. He said the show has been strategically scheduled a few days after Holi to ensure maximum public participation.
Gandharva Rathore emphasized that the primary objective of the event is to showcase the achievements and capabilities of the Indian Air Force while inspiring children and youth to consider a career in the armed forces. He stressed the importance of ensuring large-scale participation of school students and assured that, as per the state government’s directions, the district administration will make all necessary arrangements for the smooth and successful conduct of the event. He also directed the Principal of Sainik School to submit detailed logistical requirements to the administration.
Speaking on the occasion, Group Captain Rachna Joshi, Principal of Sainik School Sujanpur Tira, said that 11 Indian Air Force aircraft will participate in the air display, promising a truly spectacular and thrilling experience. She requested the district administration to extend invitations to students and residents from neighboring districts, including Hamirpur, Kangra, and Mandi, to ensure wide public participation.
The air show is expected to be a landmark event for Sujanpur and a source of pride and inspiration for the entire region.
