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India News Updated Oct 25, 2026

Rajnath Singh Welcomes PM Modi to Varanasi for IAF Wings Over Ganges

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Varanasi for the IAF's 'Wings Over Ganges' aerial display marking 94 years of the force. The event at Namo Ghat will feature the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team, Sarang Helicopter Display Team and aircraft including the Tejas, SU-30MKI and Rafale. PM Modi will also inaugurate a garment manufacturing facility and hold a roadshow through the city.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh welcomes PM Modi to Varanasi for IAF's 'Wings Over Ganges' aerial display

Varanasi, October 25

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday welcomed Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Varanasi, where he is scheduled to attend the Indian Air Force's 'Wings Over Ganges' aerial display, marking 94 years of the force.

Highlighting the significance of the event, Rajnath Singh said the aerial display would showcase the valour and might of the Indian Air Force. He also described Varanasi as a symbol of a strong, self-reliant and resurgent India.

In a post on X, the Defence Minister wrote, "Kashi is set to witness the valour and might of the Indian Air Force at 'Wings Over Ganges', celebrating 94 glorious years of the IAF. A warm welcome to Prime Minister Shri @narendramodi Ji to Varansi who will grace the occasion with his presence. Varansi showcases the spirit of a strong, self-reliant and resurgent New India."

Meanwhile, the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team (SKAT) took to the skies over Varanasi ahead of the IAF Day Aerial Display-2026, scheduled to be held at Namo Ghat as part of the 94th Indian Air Force Day celebrations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to attend the event as the Chief Guest.

The IAF's premier display teams, including the Surya Kiran Aerobatic Team and the Sarang Helicopter Display Team, are scheduled to participate in the event.

The aerial display is set to feature a range of aircraft, including the Tejas, Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand, IL-76, IL-78, C-295 and AN-32, alongside frontline fighter aircraft such as the SU-30MKI and Rafale. Aircraft from the Indian Navy and the Indian Army are also expected to participate, showcasing jointness in operations.

During his visit to his parliamentary constituency, Prime Minister Modi is also scheduled to inaugurate a new garment manufacturing facility. He is expected to travel to Arvind Mills by Army helicopter following his arrival in Varanasi on October 25.

Ahead of the Prime Minister's arrival, preparations are underway across the city to organise a grand welcome. Members of Generation Z in Kashi are planning to shower rose petals as part of a multi-point reception.

The Prime Minister's roadshow is scheduled to begin at Police Lines and pass through the Cultural Complex and Chowkaghat before reaching Namo Ghat, where he will attend the 'Wings Over Ganges' aerial display.

— ANI

Reader’s Guide · AI-assisted, based only on the report above

What the report makes clear: The IAF's 94th anniversary will be marked with an aerial display at Namo Ghat, featuring multiple aircraft and display teams.

Still open: The report does not yet say the exact timing of the display or how public access to Namo Ghat will be managed.

Another way to look at it: Large public events near ghats and riverfronts bring crowds, traffic and security considerations for residents and visitors.

What does a public IAF display in your city mean to you?

Reader Voices

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