President Patil says our forces ready to face any conflict

Gorakhpur (UP), Mar 25 (ANI): President Pratibha Patil today said that India does not wish to be involved in any conflict but if it is thrust upon us, our forces are well prepared for it.

Addressing the gathering of Air Force officers and personnel on the occasion of standard presentation ceremony at the Air Force station here, President Patil said that a strong defence and offensive potential are essential to secure the border and safeguards the sovereignty of the nation.

Praising the Indian Armed Forces for their bravery and gallantry, Patil said our Armed Forces reflect our determination to protect nation's interests.

The President awarded standard to 105 helicopter unit of Air Force Gorakhpur and 108 squadron of the Indian Air Force.

105 Helicopter Unit popularly known as the Daring Eagles, is the second oldest helicopter unit of the IAF. Since its raising in November 1959, the Unit has actively participated in the India-China War in 1962 and the India-Pakistan conflicts in 1965 and 1971, as well as in Sri Lanka military operations from 1987 to 1988.

The Unit has also undertaken humanitarian relief operations on numerous occasions, across the length and breadth of our country.

108 Squadron was raised in November 1959. The Squadron has participated actively in every operation since then, from the Liberation of Goa to the India-Pakistan wars of 1965 and 1971 and the Kargil operations. The Squadron has shown perseverance and tenacity as proclaimed in the motto of the Squadron 'Shodhan Aur Akraman' therefore, 'Search and Strike'.

She said the squadron is presently entrusted with the important task of shaping the future of the Indian Air Force, by training young fighter pilots before they join frontline fighter squadrons.

She also released special commemorative cover issued by Army Postal Service. Chief of Air Staff, Air Chief Marshal Fali Homi, Major Command Chief of south western Air Command and Central Air Command at UP Governor T.V. Rajeshwar were also present on the occasion. (ANI)