Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended a large-scale air show organized by the Indian Air Force (IAF) in Varanasi on Monday, marking the service’s 94th anniversary. The event, titled “Wings Over Ganges,” took place over the Ganga River near Namo Ghat and featured a range of aerial displays by various military aircraft.

The show highlighted the IAF’s operational capabilities through demonstrations involving fighter jets, helicopters, and transport planes. Aircraft on display included the indigenous Tejas fighter, the Light Combat Helicopter Prachand, the Sukhoi Su-30MKI, and the Rafale, among others. Spectators gathered in large numbers along the riverbanks at Namo Ghat, Bhosal Ghat, and areas opposite the Ganga, near Ramnagar, to watch the maneuvers.

In addition to Prime Minister Modi, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Uttar Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel, and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath were present at the event. Authorities implemented extensive security measures to ensure the safety and orderly conduct of the program. Modi’s attendance drew enthusiastic crowds along his route from the police lines to Namo Ghat, where people greeted him with rose petals, traditional music, and cultural performances. Slogans such as “Har Har Mahadev” and “Jai Shri Ram” echoed as the Prime Minister acknowledged the assembled crowds.

Earlier in the day, Modi inaugurated a new garment manufacturing facility operated by Arvind Ltd in the Mirzapurda area of Varanasi. The plant is expected to stimulate industrial development and bolster the textile and garment sector in the region. During his visit, Modi interacted with approximately 300 women workers, emphasizing the unit’s potential to create employment opportunities, particularly for women, and to strengthen the local economy.

Officials indicated that the new facility aims to integrate garment production in Varanasi with international markets, reflecting broader efforts to enhance industrial growth and export potential in the area.