Wings Over Ganga: PM Modi Attends IAF Air Show at Namo Ghat
Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the Indian Air Force air show at Namo Ghat in Varanasi on Sunday, an event held on the 94th Air Force Day and titled 'Wings Over Ganga'. Before the show, the Prime Minister was welcomed by large crowds along a route of nearly seven kilometres from the Police Line to the ghat.
The Prime Minister's convoy travelled by road from the Police Line, passing the Sanskritik Sankul, Chaukaghat, Kajjakpura and Rajghat Bridge. Welcome stages had been erected along the way, and people stood behind barricades on both sides of the road, showering flower petals and cheering. Supporters gathered in large numbers at several points, including Bhadaouchungi.
At several locations, the Prime Minister got out of his vehicle and waved to the crowds, responding to their enthusiasm. Patriotic songs were played as his convoy moved forward, and the streets echoed with the chant of 'Har Har Mahadev'.
On arrival at Namo Ghat, officials of the Air Force and BJP leaders welcomed him. At the venue on the bank of the Ganga, the Prime Minister acknowledged the greetings of people amid 'Namo-Namo' slogans. Participants from various communities joined the welcome, and the ghats and adjoining areas had a celebratory atmosphere.
Before the air show, the Prime Minister inaugurated a new textile unit of Arvind Limited at Khochwan in the Mirzamurad area. Set up at a cost of several crore rupees on seven acres, the unit will produce different types of garments.
The air show, featuring around 100 aircraft, including 52 fighter jets such as Rafale and Sukhoi, has been a major draw for audiences. Helicopter aerial displays performed alongside fighter aircraft have also captured the attention of spectators.
Crowds had begun assembling at Namo Ghat and the surrounding ghats from early morning. Spectators sat on the steps of the ghats and other designated spots to watch the aerial stunts, while large gatherings were also reported at Domri, Bahadurpur and Katesar on the opposite side of the Ganga. Previous days of the air show had also seen strong attendance.
The Indian Air Force's Sarang helicopter display team presented coordinated aerial stunts over the river. Its Dhruv helicopters flew together over the Ganga, displaying precise coordination, controlled turns and shifting formations, which spectators watched with keen interest.
Extensive security arrangements were made across Varanasi in view of the Prime Minister's visit and the air show. Police and administration teams remained deployed on key routes and at the venue, and barricades were installed at several points to manage the crowd.