Air Force
President Ram Nath Kovind presenting the awards in Guwahati on Thursday.

President Ram Nath Kovind on Thursday said here that the world looks at India differently today.

“I have just returned from a visit to Vietnam and Australia. I held discussions with the leaders of both these countries on different areas of mutual interest such as defence, international security, trade and culture. The deliberations made one thing amply clear. That, the world looks at India differently today,” Kovind said this while presenting Standards Award to 118 Helicopter Unit and Colours Award to Air Defence College (ADC) at Air Force Station here.

President presented the award in a ceremonial parade at Guwahati Air Force Station in the presence of Assam Governor Jagdish Mukhi, Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal and Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa.

The president said that India is seen as an eminent power, expected to play a prominent role in shaping the global paradigm with regards to international security, trade and commerce and environmental protection.

“India’s rise in the international order has many dimensions to it. And it draws heavily from the capabilities and valour of our Armed Forces. Though we remain firmly committed to peace, we are determined to use all our might to protect the sovereignty of our nation,” Kovind said.

The President’s Standard and Colours are the highest honour bestowed on units of the armed forces in recognition of their invaluable contribution to the security of the nation during peace and hostilities.

The 118 helicopter Unit (Challengers) is a Helicopter Unit and is equipped with Mi-8 and based at Guwahati Air Force Station under Eastern Air Command. It was raised at Chabua on November 22, 1971, Air Marshal Nambiar informed.

On the other hand, ADC is premier training institute of Indian Air Force and is located at Air Force Station, Memaura. The college provides professional training not only to officers of Indian Air Force but also to sister services and officers from friendly countries.