The Indian Air Force’s Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) took to the skies over Varanasi on Sunday ahead of the Air Force Day Aerial Display-2026, which Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to attend as the Chief Guest at Namo Ghat.
Titled “Wings over Ganges,” the aerial display is being organised as part of the celebrations marking the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The event will feature the IAF’s premier display teams, including the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team and the Sarang Helicopter Display Team, showcasing precision flying, aerial manoeuvres and operational coordination.
A wide range of aircraft is scheduled to participate, including the Tejas, Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand, IL-76, IL-78, C-295 and AN-32, along with frontline fighter aircraft such as the Su-30MKI and Rafale. Aircraft from the Indian Navy and the Indian Army are also expected to participate, highlighting jointness among the three services.
PM Modi to Inaugurate Garment Manufacturing Facility
During his visit to his parliamentary constituency, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also scheduled to inaugurate a new garment manufacturing facility of Arvind Limited in Varanasi.
The facility is expected to strengthen the region’s textile and apparel manufacturing ecosystem, generate employment opportunities, particularly for women, and connect locally manufactured products with global markets.
Varanasi Prepares for Prime Minister’s Visit
Preparations are underway across Varanasi to welcome the Prime Minister, with arrangements planned at multiple locations along his route.
According to local organisational leaders, the Prime Minister is scheduled to arrive at Police Lines before travelling through the city towards Namo Ghat, where he will witness the aerial display.
A meeting held on Saturday at the Metropolitan Office in Gulab Bagh, led by BJP National Minister Jagdish Patel, reviewed arrangements for the welcome.
Metropolitan President Pradeep Agrahari said a reception had been planned at eight locations between Police Lines and Namo Ghat. The arrangements are expected to include flower showers, conch-shell sounds, damru performances and drumbeats.
Local organisers said young residents and other community members would participate in the welcome, while responsibilities had been assigned to organisational workers across the city.
Published: Sunday, 25 October 2026 | 1:34 PM IST