India needs effective deterrence through strong defence: Prez

President Pranab Mukherjee today said the country needed an effective deterrence through strong a defence force which is essential for preserving peace in the march on the path of economic growth.
"As a nation, we stand firmly committed to peace, stability and prosperity. But should a contingency arise, I am confident that our armed forces will valiantly rise to the occasion to meet all the security challenges," he said while presenting the President's Standard to 112 Helicopter Unit and Colours to 4 Base Repair Depot.
The resilience and tenacity displayed by the air warriors, he said, while undertaking operational commitments as well as during disaster relief contingencies is a great source of strength and also a matter of immense pride for the nation.

Mukherjee said the award is in recognition of their outstanding performance over the years. He expressed confidence these units would continue to strive for excellence with professional zeal and serve the nation selflessly in the years to come.
He said the depot is handling the aeroengine maintenance support requirements for the Kiran trainer, MiG-27 and the Mirage aircraft fleet.
"The fact that the depot has till date overhauled over 7650 aeroengines while maintaining an enviable safety record reflects the professional ethos of its air warriors," he said.
He also recalled the operational history of 112 Helicopter Unit and said it has served with distinction.

"Not only did it provide exceptional air support to our ground forces during the 1971 operations but its brave air warriors have also consistently executed daring high altitude rescue as well as air maintenance missions in the eastern Himalayan sector," he said.