A salute is a gesture of respect and trust among soldiers which encourages a pride in their ever-shining uniforms while at the same time elevates them in their own eyes by reminding them all of that is implied by the profession and its traditions of chivalry and courtesy. You will surprised to know the meaning behind the salutes of our tri-services, read on to find that out:

Indian Air Force - Open palm at a 45 degree angle to the ground

In March 2006, Indian Air Force issued new salute norms to its personnel. This new salute involves the palm at a 45-degree angle to the ground and the right arm being sharply raised from the front by the shortest possible way. It is a mid-way between the Army and Navy salute and was standardised to make it more convenient for the IAF. Earlier, IAF hand salute was just like the Army one.

For all those who thought the salute was just a symbolic gesture, think again!