Shillong, Oct. 10 -- BY THOMAS LIM

As India celebrated Dussehra on October 8, 2019 to mark the triumph of good over evil, Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh formally received the first of the 36 Rafale fighter jets in France, marking a significant step towards bolstering India's defence and air capabilities.

A traditional Shastra Puja (worship of weapons) ceremony was conducted, following which Rajnath Singh undertook a sortie in a twin-seater trainer version of the fighter aircraft.

India chose October 8 for receiving the first Rafale jet not only because it is the occasion of Dussehra, but the day is also celebrated as Air Force Day every year. The festival of Dussehra symbolises the victory of good over evil as per Hindu tradition...