Demonstrating its strategic airlift capability in support of national diplomatic and cultural objectives, the Indian Air Force (IAF) deployed its IL-76 heavy-lift aircraft, Gajraj, to transport the sacred relics of Arahant Sariputta and Arahant Mahamoggallana—the chief disciples of Gautama Buddha—from New Delhi to Mongolia.
The mission was undertaken on the night of May 30, with the aircraft conducting an overnight flight and successfully landing in Mongolia at 1125 hrs IST.
The airlift was carried out in support of India’s cultural outreach efforts and reflects New Delhi’s commitment to strengthening civilizational and people-to-people ties with friendly nations. The transportation of the revered Buddhist relics is expected to further deepen the longstanding spiritual and cultural bonds between India and Mongolia.
The mission also underscored the Indian Air Force’s ability to rapidly deploy strategic airlift assets in support of national priorities beyond conventional military operations, contributing to India’s diplomatic engagement and global cultural initiatives.
