AERO INDIA 2019
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | February 23, 2019 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 30 |
| Quantity | 1,510,000 |
| Perforation | 13½ x 13½ |
| Printer | Security Printing Press, Hyderabad |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Shri Kamleshwar Singh |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN BL208 Stamp Number IN 3109a Yvert et Tellier IN 3199-3200 Stanley Gibbons IN MS3596 |
| Themes | Aircraft | Aviation | Helicopters | Pilots | Women |
Aero India: Showcasing India’s Aerospace Prowess
Since its inception in 1996, Aero India has emerged as Asia’s premier airshow and a hallmark event on the international aerospace calendar. Over the course of eleven successful editions, the event has evolved into a global platform for showcasing technological innovations, defence capabilities, and the growing strength of India’s aviation industry.
Aligned with the “Make in India” initiative envisioned by the Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, Aero India has attracted significant domestic and foreign investments, propelling India towards self-reliance in defence and aerospace manufacturing.
Women in Aviation and Defence: Breaking Barriers
While the event celebrates India’s growing achievements in aerospace, it also recognizes the exceptional contributions of women in aviation and defence. From military officers to commercial pilots and engineers, women have continually broken barriers and carved their mark in fields once dominated by men.
India today has the highest proportion of women pilots in the world—12%, as compared to the global average of less than 5%. As of 2018, there were 1,561 women officers in the Army, 1,594 in the Air Force, and 644 in the Navy, marking a significant shift towards gender inclusivity in the armed forces.
Honouring Women in Uniform
To celebrate these pioneering women, Day 4 of the 12th Aero India Show (23rd February 2019) was dedicated to “Women in Aviation.” This special day honoured the women who serve in the skies and on the ground pilots, engineers, scientists, air traffic controllers, and defence officers whose courage and dedication inspire future generations.
These women have not only contributed to India’s defence and aviation but have also symbolized empowerment, determination, and national pride.
Department of Defence Production: Driving India’s Self-Reliance
The Department of Defence Production (DDP), established in November 1962, is the driving force behind Aero India. Its mission has been to develop India’s indigenous capability to produce a wide range of defence equipment—ranging from tanks and armoured vehicles to fighter aircraft and naval systems. Through its numerous Defence Public Sector Undertakings and Ordnance Factories, DDP has built a strong foundation for India’s defence infrastructure.
The Theme: “Runway to a Billion Opportunities”
The Aero India 2019 theme “The Runway to a Billion Opportunities” captures India’s dynamic growth in both aviation and defence sectors. With air passenger traffic projected to reach 350 million by 2020, India is poised to become the third-largest aviation market in the world. A projected investment of USD 130 billion in military modernization over the next few years reinforces India’s rise as a global aerospace hub.
Logo Inspired by the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft
The Aero India 2019 logo draws inspiration from the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) a symbol of India’s technological self-reliance and innovation. The tri-coloured silhouette of Tejas with the Ashoka Chakra at its centre embodies the spirit of New India bold, self-assured, and visionary.
Commemorative Postage Stamps: A Tribute to Women in Aviation
To honour these remarkable women, the Department of Posts issued a set of two Commemorative Postage Stamps titled “Women in Aviation”.
These stamps pay tribute to women officers, pilots, and professionals who have played an integral role in India’s aviation and defence history a salute to their courage, excellence, and unwavering spirit.