Hyderabad, Dec 20 : Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted a Combined Graduation Parade (CGP) here today for its cadets who have successfully completed their basic and professional training.

A total of 97 cadets from all branches of the IAF were awarded the President''s commission by Chief of Indian Air Force, Air Chief Marshal F. H. Major, upon passing out after completion of their training in flying, navigation and ground duty.

The cadets underwent training at Air Force Academy, Hyderabad, AFAC, Coimbatore, Air Defence College, Lucknow and Air Force stations at Hakimpet, Yelhanka and Begumpet.

Expressing pride in the training imparted to the cadets at the AIF, Air Chief Marshal F. H. Major, said, "The Air Force academy is a very premiere, one of the finest flying academies in the world. The training which is imparted here to all branches is very unique and the commandants and the others put in a lot of hard work to bring out excellent men and women in all branches of the Air Force."

The newly commissioned cadets were quite ecstatic at being inducted into active duty in the force.

"I''m in transport. It''s a great feeling to be commissioned, become a flying officer, getting wings... There is risk in fighter but in transport there is no such risk. Its thrill, fun, comfortable," said Saurabh Singh, a Flying Officer.

The merit holders who stood first in their respective fields during the training were also awarded with honours.

There was also the traditional flypast by Chetak helicopters and an exhilarating air show by the world famous ''Surya Kiran'' acrobatic team at the parade. (ANI)