In a historic moment, Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari unveiled the Air Force's new ensign during the annual Air Force Day parade in Prayagraj. This marks the first time in 72 years that such an update has been made by the IAF. The new ensign features the Indian Air Force crest in the top right corner and is designed to better reflect the values of the IAF.
The crest includes the national symbol, the Ashoka lion, along with the words 'Satyameva Jayate' in Devanagari, symbolizing truth triumphs. It also features a Himalayan eagle with its wings spread, denoting the IAF's fighting qualities, and the motto 'touch the sky with glory' in Devanagari.
The Indian Air Force was officially established on October 8, 1932. During World War II, it earned the prefix "Royal" and became the Royal Indian Air Force (RIAF) in March 1945. However, in 1950, after India became a republic, the "Royal" prefix was dropped, and the ensign was amended to reflect the Indian tricolour and the IAF tricolour roundel. This recent update is aimed at reaffirming the IAF's values and history, emphasizing its distinct identity.