The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) monumental “Vayu Veer Vijeta Car Rally,” commemorating the 92nd anniversary of the IAF, was flagged in by the Chief Minister of Arunachal Pradesh, Shri Pema Khandu, on October 30, 2024. This mega rally, covering a staggering 7,000 kilometers, began at Thoise in Ladakh on October 8, 2024, the day of the anniversary, and concluded in Tawang, marking a significant celebration of the IAF’s legacy.
The rally was inaugurated with a ceremonial send-off by the Raksha Mantri, Shri Rajnath Singh, at the National War Memorial in New Delhi on October 1, before being formally launched from Thoise, situated at an altitude of 3,068 meters, making it one of the highest air force stations in the world.
Enroute, the rally featured various halts across key locations, including Leh, Kargil, Srinagar, Jammu, Chandigarh, Dehradun, Agra, Lucknow, Ayodhya, Jaswantgarh, Gorakhpur, Darbhanga, Bagdogra, Hasimara, Guwahati, Tezpur, and Dirang. These halts provided opportunities for air warriors to engage with students from various colleges and universities, fostering awareness of the IAF’s glorious history and encouraging youth to consider a career in the armed forces.
The rally was led by Wing Commander Vijay Prakash Bhatt and included the participation of 52 air warriors, including women. Notably, former Air Force Chiefs joined various segments of the journey, showcasing unity and camaraderie among the ranks. The IAF’s Adventure Cell played a crucial role in organizing and coordinating the rally.
Highlighting the rally’s significance, the Chief of the Air Staff participated in the event, leading the team from Hasimara to Guwahati on October 23. The overarching aim of the rally was to honor the valor of air warriors in various conflicts and rescue operations while inspiring the youth of Northeast India to join the Indian Armed Forces.
With its successful completion in Tawang, the Vayu Veer Vijeta Car Rally stands as a testament to the bravery and dedication of the Indian Air Force, igniting a spirit of patriotism and pride in the nation.