A True Patriot, Outstanding Soldier: PM Modi

In a tragic incident India’s first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat was killed in a helicopter crash near Coonoor in the nearby hilly Nilgiris district in Tamil Nadu. Along with Rawat, his wife Madhulika Rawat and 11 others who were on board were also killed in this accident.

Learning about this, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was deeply anguished. Taking to his Twitter, Modi wrote, “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. 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.”

Union Minister Amit Shah called it a sad day for the nation. “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,” tweeted Amit Shah and prayed for the speedy recovery of Group Captain Varun Singh who was injured in this crash and is currently under treatment at Military Hospital, Wellington.

President of India Ramnath Kovind expressed shock. “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. It’s deeply painful for me to learn of the loss of lives in the chopper crash. I join the fellow citizens in paying tributes to each of those who died while performing their duty. My heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families,” added Rashtrapati Bhavan’s verified handle.