President awards Standard to 31 SQN, Colours to 9 BRD of Air Force

Pune, Jan 8(ANI): The President and the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, Pratibha Patil, on Saturday awarded the prestigious Presidential Standard to 31 Squadron Air Force and Colours to 9 Base Repair Depot (BRD) Air Force, during a grand ceremonial parade held at the Lohegaon Air Force Station in Pune.

The Commanding Officer of 31 Squadron Wing Commander Ashutosh Srivastava received the Standard, whereas Air Officer Commanding of 9 BRD, Air Commodore B.R. Chandran received the Colours from the President.

Both formations of the Indian Air Force (IAF) are based at Pune.

IAF Operational Squadrons become eligible for award of Presidential Standards after completion of 18 years, while Base Repair Depots and Training Institutions become eligible for award of Presidential Colours after 25 years.

The selection is based on their past record and achievements during peace as well as hostilities and acknowledges the rich heritage and impeccable record of meritorious service rendered by the units.

The Colours are awarded to non-flying formations and Standards are awarded to Operational Units.

Speaking on the occasion, the President Patil said: "As we embark on the path of economic progress the need to preserve peace is essential for which effective deterrence is necessary."

"We do not wish to initiate or encourage conflict in the region, but if it is thrust upon us, I am confident that our Armed Forces will rise to the occasion and keep the country's flag high," she added. (ANI)