Wings Over Ganges: IAF Air Show at Varanasi’s Namo Ghat

For those who missed the first display on October 22, the two additional days offer another chance to catch the show.

Celebrating 94 Years of the Indian Air Force

The air show has been organised to mark the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force. It highlights the force’s operational capabilities, technological strength and flying skills through synchronised aerial formations and high-speed manoeuvres meant to demonstrate precision and combat readiness.

Why It Matters: Bringing the Air Force to the People

Air shows of this scale are usually tied to air bases or major metro venues. Staging one over the Ganga in Varanasi, one of India’s oldest living cities, gives the event a different character. It takes the IAF’s showcase beyond a defence audience and places it in front of pilgrims, tourists and local residents alike.

Such public displays also play a role in building awareness about the armed forces and can inspire young spectators to consider careers in military aviation.

PM Modi Expected on October 25

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who represents Varanasi in the Lok Sabha, is expected to attend the October 25 programme at Namo Ghat. Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh are also expected to be present, according to reports.

The anticipated high-profile attendance has led to extensive preparations by the state administration and security agencies.

11,900 Police Personnel on Duty

Varanasi Police Commissioner Mohit Agrawal said around 11,900 police personnel have been deployed for the event. Teams from the Provincial Armed Constabulary (PAC), National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), bomb disposal squads and the Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) are also part of the security setup.

Authorities have put in place comprehensive arrangements for traffic management, medical emergencies and crowd control to handle the expected rush of spectators.

CM Yogi Reviewed Preparations Earlier

On October 14, CM Yogi Adityanath visited Namo Ghat to review preparations for the air show and the Prime Minister’s proposed visit. The Police Commissioner, District Magistrate and Army officials briefed him on the arrangements using project maps.

The Chief Minister directed officials to ensure robust security, effective crowd management and smooth logistics, and asked them to strengthen arrangements at other major ghats along the Ganga as well.

What Comes Next

With Saturday’s display underway and the grand finale on Sunday, all eyes are on Namo Ghat. If the arrangements hold up under the expected crowds, ‘Wings Over Ganges’ could set a template for bringing large-scale defence showcases to culturally significant public spaces across the country.