CM Vishnu Deo Sai inaugurated Jashpur’s maiden aviation training program at the Aagdih Airstrip, marking a significant milestone in Chhattisgarh’s journey toward becoming an aviation education hub. Engaging with the cadets of the 3 CG Air Squadron NCC Raipur, he praised their enthusiasm and highlighted Jashpur’s evolving role beyond tourism and agriculture, now stepping into aviation skill development.
Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to youth empowerment, CM Vishnu Deo Sai assured aspiring pilots of full government support in their pursuit of aviation careers. He emphasized that this initiative is more than just flight training—it is a transformative step toward positioning Jashpur as a key aviation training center and putting Chhattisgarh on the national aviation map.
During the event, CM Vishnu Deo Sai inspected the Microlight Air Squadron aircraft, received technical briefings, and directed officials to organize educational exposure visits for cadets to Jashpur’s prominent tourist and ecological sites. He also underscored Jashpur’s rapid progress as an agricultural hub, with the expansion of cashew, tea, and apple cultivation.
Aviation Training in Jashpur: A Landmark Opportunity for NCC Cadets
Since March 7, 2025, daily aviation training sessions have been conducted at sunrise, providing 100 NCC cadets with hands-on flying experience, including takeoffs, mid-air maneuvers, and safe landings. This initiative, the first of its kind outside Raipur, has generated immense excitement among the trainees.
Training on Virus SW-80 Twin-Seater Aircraft
The Aagdih Airstrip, featuring a 1,200-meter runway, is well-equipped for flight training. Cadets are being trained on the Virus SW-80, a twin-seater, single-engine aircraft capable of flying at 20,000 feet, though training flights are currently limited to 1,000 feet for safety and efficiency.
According to the Commanding Officer, cadets who excel in the NCC ‘C’ Certificate exam become eligible for direct interviews with the Indian Air Force, making this program a crucial stepping stone in their aviation careers.
Cadets Share Their Experience
Trainee Nitesh Prajapati expressed excitement over Jashpur’s pollution-free skies, calling it an ideal location for aviation training. “My dream is to become an Air Force pilot, and this program is a major step toward achieving it,” he said.
Another cadet, Pranshu Chauhan, highlighted the benefits of training in a clear, congestion-free airspace, noting that the serene environment enhances the learning experience.
Dignitaries in Attendance
The inauguration ceremony was graced by notable dignitaries, including Smt. Gomti Sai, Vice Chairperson of the Surguja Tribal Development Authority, MLA Smt. Rai Muni Bhagat, District Panchayat President Shri Salik Sai, Surguja Commissioner Shri Narendra Kumar Dugga, IG Shri Ankit Garg, Collector Shri Rohit Vyas, SSP Shri Shashi Mohan Singh, Zila Panchayat CEO Shri Abhishek Kumar, along with aviation trainers, officials, and public representatives.