CDS General Bipin Rawat, his wife Madhulika and 11 others have died in the IAF’s chopper crash at Tamil Nadu’s Coonoor. The IAF has confirmed the tragedy
CDS General Bipin Rawat, his wife Madhulika and 11 others have died in the IAF’s chopper crash at Tamil Nadu’s Coonoor. The IAF has confirmed the tragedy
We trained together at #NDA. We fought terrorists together in #Kashmir. In the loss of Brig LS Lidder, SM, VSM today, India has lost one of its brightest & bravest officers & I have lost a friend. A decorated soldier, caring husband & doting father, you will be missed, Tony. pic.twitter.com/4cIV5WEtVr
— RajyavardhanRathore (@Ra_THORe) December 8, 2021
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh will on Thursday make statements on the tragic events of the day in both houses of Parliament, with CDS General Bipin Rawat and 13 others being killed in a helicopter crash in the forests of Coonoor in Tamil Nadu. The Raksha Mantri had attended the CCS meeting chaired by the Prime Minister in the immediate aftermath of the CDS’ demise being announced by the IAF.
General Bipin Rawat had last visited his native village in Uttarakhand’s Pauri in 2018 and had plans to build a house there after his retirement, his uncle recalled, hours after a helicopter crash killed India’s first Chief of Defence Staff near Coonoor in Tamil Nadu on Wednesday.
His uncle Bharat Singh Rawat (70) had gone to Kotdwar for some work but returned home as soon as he heard about the accident. The general’s uncle said people from nearby villages offered condolences to the family with tears in their eyes.
He said Bipin Rawat had offered prayers to their “kuldevata” during his last visit to the village in 2018. He left on the same day and had said he would build a house in the village after his retirement, the general’s uncle said.
Bharat Singh Rawat said the general was attached to his village and had told people that he would do something for the area after retirement as he was pained at migration from here.
He used to talk over the phone to him and had plans to visit the village in April next year, the general’s uncle said wiping his tears, adding that little did he know that his nephew’s wish would remain unfulfilled.
(Above inputs from PTI)
“We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat and his wife and families of armed forces personnel who lost their lives today”, EU’s ambassador to India Ugo Astuto has posted on Twitter.
Sri Lanka’s President Gotabaya Rajapaksa tweeted, “Deeply saddened to hear of the sudden demise of General #BipinRawat, Mrs Rawat & others in the tragic helicopter accident in Tamil Nadu. I extend my condolences to the families & to all Indians on behalf of the people of #SriLanka.”
The RSS, meanwhile, has issued the following statement:
“The sudden demise of Chief of Defense Staff General Bipin Rawat in a helicopter crash is shocking and a great loss for the nation.Under his leadership, the Indian Army set new paradigms of valour.”
“In his passing, the country has lost a great security strategist, a true patriot and an able leader. RSS pays heartfelt tributes to General Rawat, his wife and the soldiers who lost their lives in this unfortunate incident.”
20:19 IST, December 8th 2021
The Indian Army has also conveyed heartfelt condolences & stands firm in support of the bereaved families of the following personnel:
Brigadier LS Lidder
Lt Col H Singh
Wg Cdr PS Chauhan
Sqn Ldr K Singh
JWO Das
JWO Pradeep A
Hav Satpal
Nk Gursewak Singh
Nk Jitender
L/Nk Vivek
L/Nk S Teja
China’s ambassador to India has tweeted, “Deep condolences on the sad demise of CDS General Bipin Rawat, his wife and other victims in the helicopter crash accident. My sympathy goes to all the family members of General Bipin Rawat.”
20:07 IST, December 8th 2021
The investigating team consisting of Indian Air Force officers visited the crash-site in Coonoor and recovered parts of the Mi17. The search is on to find the black box.
20:07 IST, December 8th 2021
As per sources, the Prime Minister will be present at the Shok Sabha in Delhi, after the mortal remains are brought back from Coonoor.
Satoshi Suzuki (Ambassador of Japan to India) has tweeted “Deeply saddened by the tragic demise of Gen Bipin Rawat, Chief of Defence Staff, his wife and 11 Armed Forces personnel in an unfortunate accident at Sulur, Tamil Nadu. I extend my deepest condolences to the bereaved family members of the people killed in the accident.”
19:54 IST, December 8th 2021
The Prime Minister-led Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) was briefed about the military helicopter crash that led to the death of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat and other defence personnel near Coonoor in Tamil Nadu.
Besides Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the meeting was attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Home Minister Amit Shah, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, official sources said.
National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, Principal Secretary to the Prime Minister PK Misra and Cabinet Secretary Rajiv Gauba also attended the meeting, in which the CCS members were briefed about the tragic incident.
The sources said the top cabinet brass expressed condolences on the death of General Rawat.
Separately, Chief of Army Staff General MM Naravane briefed the Defence Minister about the crash and related issues. The Defence Minister also visited General Rawat’s residence and spoke to his daughter.
(Above inputs as per PTI)
19:45 IST, December 8th 2021
As per sources, the Prime Minister and Home Minister are holding a one-on-one meeting post the conclusion of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting.
The Prime Minister of Bhutan’s official Twitter handle has posted its condolences over the demise of CDS General Bipin Rawat.
Heartaching to learn of helicopter crash in India, claiming 13 precious lives, including the Chief of Defense Staff Gen. Bipin Rawat and wife. People of Bhutan and I offer prayers for India and the bereaved families. May you find strength to see through the tragedy.@PMOIndia
— PM Bhutan (@PMBhutan) December 8, 2021
The US embassy has also posted a statement condling the loss of CDS General Bipin Rawat
“The U.S. Embassy extends its deepest condolences to the Rawat family and the families of those who perished in the tragic helicopter crash in Tamil Nadu.
As India’s first Chief of Defence Staff, General Rawat spearheaded a historic period of transformation in the Indian military. He was a strong friend and partner of the United States, overseeing a major expansion of India’s defense cooperation with the U.S. military. In September, he spent five days traveling throughout the United States as part of a counterpart visit with General Mark Milley to discuss military developments and opportunities to enhance our cooperation with like-minded countries. His legacy will continue on.
Our thoughts are with the Indian people and the Indian military, and we pray for Group Captain Varun Singh’s full recovery.”
Russia’s envoy has also posted warmly about General Bipin Rawat.
Russia has lost a very close friend, who played a big role in promotion of our bilateral special and privileged strategic partnership. Grieving together with India. Goodbye, friend! Farewell, commander! https://t.co/ywpXHHYYJC
— Nikolay Kudashev ?? (@NKudashev) December 8, 2021
19:45 IST, December 8th 2021
PM & HM holding one-on-one after CCS; Bhutan’s PM, US & Russia’s Embassies issue statements
As per sources, the Prime Minister and Home Minister are holding a one-on-one meeting post the conclusion of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting.
The Prime Minister of Bhutan’s official Twitter handle has posted its condolences over the demise of CDS General Bipin Rawat.
The US embassy has also posted a statement condling the loss of CDS General Bipin Rawat
“The U.S. Embassy extends its deepest condolences to the Rawat family and the families of those who perished in the tragic helicopter crash in Tamil Nadu.
As India’s first Chief of Defence Staff, General Rawat spearheaded a historic period of transformation in the Indian military. He was a strong friend and partner of the United States, overseeing a major expansion of India’s defense cooperation with the U.S. military. In September, he spent five days traveling throughout the United States as part of a counterpart visit with General Mark Milley to discuss military developments and opportunities to enhance our cooperation with like-minded countries. His legacy will continue on.
Our thoughts are with the Indian people and the Indian military, and we pray for Group Captain Varun Singh’s full recovery.”
Russia’s envoy has also posted warmly about General Bipin Rawat.
19:35 IST, December 8th 2021
Cabinet Committee on Security paid tribute to those who died in the Coonoor chopper crash
In the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting, all members observed 2 minutes of silence & paid tributes to all those who lost their lives in the chopper crash, govt sources tell Republic. The meeting was held for just short of an hour, starting at 6:30 pm. It was attended by the senior-most union ministers as well as the top bureaucrats and chaired by the Prime Minister.
19:30 IST, December 8th 2021
Cabinet Committee on Security meet concludes; CDS Rawat’s brother-in-law to leave for Delhi
The Cabinet Committee on Security chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has concluded its meeting post the demise of CDS General Bipin Rawat.
General Bipin Rawat’s brother in law Yashvardhan Singh will leave for Delhi shortly. The mortal remains of the CDS and his wife Madhulika will reach Delhi on Thursday.
Meanwhile, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu has mourned CDS Rawat’s demise, tweeting “Deeply shocked by the tragic death of Chief of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat, his spouse Smt. Madhulika Rawat, senior officials of the armed forces & others in a helicopter crash in Coonoor, Tamil Nadu.”
Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan has posted, “Deepest condolences on the untimely passing of CDS Gen Bipin Rawat, his wife, Army officials who accompanied them and crew of the IAF helicopter involved in the unfortunate accident. Kerala joins the nation in sharing the grief of their near and dear ones.”
19:20 IST, December 8th 2021
Indian Army issues statement on CDS General Bipin Rawat’s demise
STATEMENT BY INDIAN ARMY
General MM Naravane and all ranks of the Indian Army express their deepest grief and sorrow over the untimely demise of General Bipin Rawat, Chief of Defence Staff, Mrs Madhulika Rawat, President DWWA and 11 other military personnel in an unfortunate air accident today on 08 Dec.
General Bipin Rawat, India’s first CDS, was a visionary who initiated far reaching reforms in the Indian military’s higher defence organisation. He was instrumental in creating the foundation of India’s joint theatre commands and giving impetus to the increased indigenisation of military equipment, a legacy which will be carried on and strengthened by successive generations.
Mrs Madhulika Rawat, also the former President AWWA was an epitome of grace whose presence will be missed by everyone.
The deceased 11 military personnel accompanying the CDS and President DWWA on the way to Wellington will also be equally missed by everyone. They performed their duties as per the best traditions of the Armed Forces.
19:05 IST, December 8th 2021
PM Modi chairs CCS meeting in light of CDS Gen Rawat’s demise
PM Modi chairs Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting in light of CDS General Bipin Rawat’s demise. Home Minister Amit Shah, EAM Jaishankar, NSA Doval, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh & Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman are present
19:01 IST, December 8th 2021
Indian Navy pays tribute to CDS General Bipin Rawat
The Chief of Naval Staff and the Indian Navy have condoled the demise of CDS General Rawat and others in the IAF chopper crash at Coonoor.
The dynamic and inspiring leadership of General Bipin Rawat shall remain eternally etched in our memories.
The #IndianArmedForces will forever remain indebted to his invaluable contributions. (2/2)— SpokespersonNavy (@indiannavy) December 8, 2021
19:01 IST, December 8th 2021
Indian Navy pays tribute to CDS General Bipin Rawat
The Chief of Naval Staff and the Indian Navy have condoled the demise of CDS General Rawat and others in the IAF chopper crash at Coonoor.
18:50 IST, December 8th 2021
Union Ministers, Chief Ministers and top politicians pay tribute to CDS General Rawat
“It’s a terrible day and it’s been an extremely sad day from the moment we heard this in Parliament. Not just because he was CDS, but because he was General Bipin Rawat, who was preparing the modernisation of the Indian forces. He was an extremely distinguished soldier and a fine gentleman,” says MoS Electronics & IT Rajeev Chandrasekhar to Republic on CDS Bipin Rawat’s demise.
“Deeply saddened by the demise of Chief of Defence Staff Gen #BipinRawat, his wife & 11 other Defence personnel in a very tragic accident in #TamilNadu. It is an irreparable loss to the nation. Deepest condolences to the bereaved families and wish speedy recovery of the injured” tweets Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik.
“Deeply shocked to learn about the tragic death of CDS Gen. Bipin Rawat, his wife and other soldiers of armed forces. India has lost a brave son today. His contributions for strengthening the armed forces shall always be remembered. My profound condolences,” says former Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad.
“Sincere condolences on the demise of CDS Gen Bipin Rawat along with his wife and staff in the tragic helicopter crash. My prayers for the departed souls. May Akal Purakh grant solace to the bereaved family members.
“A soldier never dies he becomes eternal” #BipinRawat,” writes SAD chief Sukhbir Singh Badal.
“I am deeply saddened to learn about the tragic demise of CDS General Bipin Rawat ji, his wife Madhulika Ji & other officers on board the helicopter. India has lost some of its bravest today.
May the departed souls find peace.
My condolences to their families and loved ones,” writes former Rajasthan Dy CM Sachin Pilot.
“It’s very sad & shocking to hear about the demise of Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat, his wife and other Armed Forces personnel in the unfortunate helicopter accident today. It’s an irreparable loss to the country. I pray to Almighty that their souls may rest in peace,” writes ex J&K CM and senior Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad.
“Shocked and saddened beyond words at the most tragic death of CDS Gen Bipin Rawat, his wife, and 11 other Officers in the helicopter crash. My deepest condolences to the bereaved family members and prayers for the injured officer. Om Shanti,” writes former Karnataka CM BS Yediyurappa.
18:41 IST, December 8th 2021
CDS General Bipin Rawat’s mortal remains to reach Delhi by Thursday evening
The mortal remains of Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat and his wife Madhulika along with other Armed Forces personnel killed in the chopper crash at Coonoor are expected to arrive in Delhi by evening on Thursday
18:36 IST, December 8th 2021
President of India, PM Modi and Indian Army mourn and pay tribute to CDS General Bipin Rawat
“His passing away has saddened me deeply”: PM Modi calls CDS Rawat ‘an outstanding soldier, a true patriot’.
I am deeply anguished by the helicopter crash in Tamil Nadu in which we have lost Gen Bipin Rawat, his wife and other personnel of the Armed Forces. They served India with utmost diligence. My thoughts are with the bereaved families.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 8, 2021
Gen Bipin Rawat was an outstanding soldier. A true patriot, he greatly contributed to modernising our armed forces and security apparatus. His insights and perspectives on strategic matters were exceptional. His passing away has saddened me deeply. Om Shanti. pic.twitter.com/YOuQvFT7Et
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 8, 2021
As India’s first CDS, Gen Rawat worked on diverse aspects relating to our armed forces including defence reforms. He brought with him a rich experience of serving in the Army. India will never forget his exceptional service.
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 8, 2021
I am shocked and anguished over the untimely demise of Gen. Bipin Rawat and his wife, Madhulika ji. The nation has lost one of its bravest sons. His four decades of selfless service to the motherland was marked by exceptional gallantry and heroism. My condolences to his family.
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) December 8, 2021
General MM Naravane #COAS & All Ranks of #IndianArmy pay heartfelt condolences on the untimely demise of General Bipin Rawat #CDS, Mrs Madhulika Rawat & 11 other passengers on board, in an unfortunate air crash at #Coonoor. (1/n) pic.twitter.com/sc6bmFodXJ
— ADG PI – INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) December 8, 2021
The dynamic and inspiring leadership of General Bipin Rawat shall remain eternally etched in our memories. The #IndianArmedForces will forever remain indebted to his invaluable contributions. (2/n) pic.twitter.com/0V2kcMtNUX
— ADG PI – INDIAN ARMY (@adgpi) December 8, 2021
8:28 IST, December 8th 2021
“He was one of the bravest soldiers, who has served the motherland with utmost devotion,” writes Home Minister Amit Shah on CDS General Bipin Rawat’s demise.
A very sad day for the nation as we have lost our CDS, General Bipin Rawat Ji in a very tragic accident. He was one of the bravest soldiers, who has served the motherland with utmost devotion. His exemplary contributions & commitment cannot be put into words. I am deeply pained.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 8, 2021
I also express my deepest condolences on the sad demise of Mrs Madhulika Rawat and 11 other Armed Forces personnel. My thoughts are with the bereaved families. May God give them the strength to bear this tragic loss.
Praying for the speedy recovery of Gp Capt Varun Singh.
— Amit Shah (@AmitShah) December 8, 2021
Deeply pained by the sudden demise of CDS Gen Bipin Rawat, his wife & 11 other Armed Forces personnel in an unfortunate helicopter accident today in Tamil Nadu.Huge loss to the nation.
I salute Gen Rawat for his outstanding services. My heartfelt condolences to bereaved families.— Jagat Prakash Nadda (@JPNadda) December 8, 2021
तमिलनाडु के कुन्नूर में दुर्भाग्यपूर्ण हादसे में CDS जनरल श्री बिपिन रावत जी व उनकी धर्मपत्नी का निधन अत्यंत दुःखद है।
एक उत्कृष्ट सैन्य अधिकारी के रूप में श्री रावत जी सदैव याद किए जाएंगे।
उनका असामयिक निधन राष्ट्र की अपूरणीय क्षति है।
— Yogi Adityanath (@myogiadityanath) December 8, 2021
“He was one of the bravest soldiers, who has served the motherland with utmost devotion,” writes Home Minister Amit Shah on CDS General Bipin Rawat’s demise.
Union Ministers Jaishankar, Nitin Gadkari, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat and Piyush Goyal, as well as former Congress president Rahul Gandhi and ex-Team India cricketer Yuvraj Singh mourn demise of CDS General Bipin Rawat in the helicopter crash in Coonoor.
Deeply shocked at tragic demise of CDS General Bipin Rawat and his wife.
We worked closely together in the last few years. It is a huge loss to the nation.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) December 8, 2021
I extend my condolences to the family of Gen Bipin Rawat and his wife.
This is an unprecedented tragedy and our thoughts are with their family in this difficult time.
Heartfelt condolences also to all others who lost their lives.India stands united in this grief.
— Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) December 8, 2021
Deeply anguished by the sudden demise of Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat, his wife and 11 other Armed Forces personnel in an extremely unfortunate helicopter accident today in Tamil Nadu.
His untimely death is an irreparable loss to our Armed Forces and the country.
— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) December 8, 2021
The Mi17V5 helicopter, which crashed with Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Bipin Rawat and 13 other people onboard on Wednesday, is an advanced military transport chopper that has been with the Indian Air Force (IAF) since 2012.
Manufactured by Russian Helicopters’ subsidiary Kazan, the helicopter has an onboard weather radar and is equipped with the latest generation of night vision devices.
It also has the new PKV-8 autopilot system and a KNEI-8 avionics suite. It can carry a maximum take off weight of 13,000 kg and maximum payload weight of 4,000 kg.
India had in 2008 signed a deal with Russia to induct 80 Mi17V5 medium lift helicopters for strengthening its chopper fleet for humanitarian and disaster relief missions and transport operations.
The contract was later expanded for delivery of 151 Mi17V5 helicopters.
The first batch of these helicopters came to India in September 2011.
In February 2012, the IAF had formally Mi17V5 helicopters from Russia to enhance its operational capabilities including carrying troops and cargo to high altitude areas.
The helicopter is fitted with a self-defence system against heat seeker missiles, heavily-armoured cockpit, vital systems and components.
“The Mi-17V-5 military transport helicopter is designed to carry personnel, cargo and equipment inside the cargo cabin or on an external sling, drop tactical air assault forces and reconnaissance and sabotage groups, destroy ground targets and carry the wounded,” said Russian government’s defence exports company Rosoboronexport.
According to the company, this helicopter can achieve a maximum speed of 250 km per hour.
The helicopter is fitted with advanced TV3-117VM engines.
It is the most technically advanced helicopter of Mi-8/17 family of helicopters, and incorporates the best engineering solutions from previous generations of helicopters.
(Above as per PTI)
As per the latest inputs, the government is expected to issue a formal statement on the Tamil Nadu IAF chopper crash involving CDS General Bipin Rawat, but it is only likely to happen after the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) meeting that the Prime Minister is expected to chair at 6:30 pm. Earlier, it was reported that the Defence Minister would be briefing Parliament on Wednesday, which was then shifted forward by a day to Thursday. However, the situation is in flux depending on the news coming out of Coonoor.
The Prime Minister has called a meeting of the Cabinet Committee of Security (CCS) at 6:30 pm on Wednesday in light of the IAF chopper crash in Tamil Nadu. CDS General Bipin Rawat and his wife Madhulika Rawat were among the 14 persons onboard the Mi-17 chopper. The condition of the CDS is still unclear – he is being treated in hospital is the latest information.
In view of the IAF Helicopter Crash, President Kovind cancels all events in Mumbai, to head back to Delhi.
13 of the 14 personnel involved in the military chopper crash in Tamil Nadu have been confirmed dead. Identities of the bodies to be confirmed through DNA testing, as per ANI Sources.
13 of the 14 personnel involved in the military chopper crash in Tamil Nadu have been confirmed dead. Identities of the bodies to be confirmed through DNA testing, sources have informed.
Krishnaswamy, the first eyewitness, said that the helicopter crashed into a tree making a loud noise. It was then engulfed in flames. The locals immediately alerted the police and fire department.”I saw a person who was up in flames. Then I saw three or four other persons who were fully charred. I got really scared and left the place.”
Ramachandran, fire, and rescue team personnel in an exclusive conversation with Republic said, “We were on duty at the helipad, it is a regular posting for us when there is a movement. But though the helicopter took off it hadn’t landed even after half an hour of the landing time. That is when we got information about the accident.
“We rushed to this spot, but the fire service vehicle could not reach by then so we trekked 2 km. We have retrieved 2 people alive, one with 90 percent burn and another with 45 percent burn. 12 others retrieved have been declared dead,” he added.