New Delhi: Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, Chief of Air Staff, marked the 91st Indian Air Force (IAF) Day celebrations by unveiling a new ensign for the IAF in Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. This new ensign replaces the existing one that has been in use for over seven decades. The new ensign features the IAF crest in the top right corner, representing a significant moment in the history of the IAF. The unveiling of the new ensign comes more than a year after the Indian Navy made changes to its ensign, shedding its colonial past.

Respectful Salutations to the Indian Airforce for protecting our nation.On this historic Day , Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari proudly unveiled the new #IAF ensign during the Annual Air Force Day Parade. Saluting the bravery of our air warriors! #IndianAirForceDay @IAF_MCC pic.twitter.com/D7D0ABdEpr

— ABVP Tamilnadu - North (@ABVPNorthTN) October 8, 2023

The previous ensign was adopted in 1950, replacing the Royal Indian Air Force (RIAF) ensign, which included the Union Jack and the RIAF roundel (red, white, and blue). With India becoming a Republic in 1950, the IAF dropped its "Royal" prefix and updated its ensign to reflect the change. Air Chief Marshal Chaudhari addressed the significance of this change during the Air Force Day celebrations, stating, "As we start a new chapter in the history of IAF, let us all strive to be the change that we want to see. Let us work together to take our air force to greater heights and let us use our commitment and collective capacity to achieve excellence in all that we do."

The Indian Air Force was officially established on October 8, 1932. During World War II, it earned the "Royal" prefix in March 1945 due to its professional efficiency and achievements. However, in 1950, it dropped the "Royal" prefix and updated its ensign following India's transition to a Republic. 

The new IAF ensign is designed to better reflect the values of the Indian Air Force. It now includes the Air Force Crest in the top right corner of the ensign, towards the fly side. The IAF crest features the national symbol, the Ashoka lion, on the top, with the words 'Satyameva Jayate' in Devanagari below it. Below the Ashoka lion, a Himalayan eagle with its wings spread denotes the fighting qualities of the IAF. A light blue ring encircles the Himalayan eagle, with the words 'Bhartiya Vayu Sena' inscribed. The IAF motto, 'touch the sky with the glory,' is also included in Devanagari below the Himalayan eagle. The Air Force Day parade, traditionally held at the Hindon airbase near Delhi until 2021, was celebrated in Prayagraj this year, continuing the tradition of taking the event outside the national capital.

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