Indian Air Force Displays Fighter Jets and Choppers Over Ganga Ahead of Varanasi Air Show

Fighter jets and helicopters roared over the Ganga in Varanasi on Wednesday as the Indian Air Force held a grand rehearsal for its upcoming 'Wings over Ganga' event, drawing huge crowds from Namo Ghat to Assi Ghat. The rehearsal on October 21 showcased preparations for the main air show scheduled for October 22, 24, and 25 to mark the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also scheduled to attend the programme at around 1 PM on October 25. During the practice session, aircraft including Rafale, Su-30MKI, Mirage-2000, MiG-29, Jaguar, and indigenous Tejas flew over the historic riverbanks. The Sarang helicopter display team also performed aerial maneuvers, while commandos descended from a helicopter onto a moving cruise boat on the river using ropes in front of Namo Ghat to demonstrate tactical skills under difficult conditions. Around 1,000 school children and other spectators gathered at Namo Ghat to watch the display, alongside visitors from nearby districts. In total, the main air show will feature 100 aircraft, comprising 52 fighter jets, 32 helicopters, 15 transport planes, and one historical aircraft. Sarang team Squadron Leader Ankita Singh noted that the event aims to inspire youth towards careers in the armed forces and aviation. Meanwhile, ahead of the air show and the Prime Minister's visit, the local health department has put government and private hospitals on alert, reserving a combined total of 295 beds across the district, including 26 beds at Heritage Institute of Medical Sciences, to handle any medical emergencies from October 22 to 26.

Context

Major public defence exhibitions and air shows are regularly organized by the armed forces across different cities to connect with citizens, showcase modern military capabilities, and encourage young people to join national service. Varanasi's historic ghats along the Ganga provide a prominent backdrop for large-scale national events that draw visitors from surrounding regions.