In a heartbreaking incident that has shaken the nation, two Indian Air Force (#IAF) pilots lost their lives in the crash of a #JaguarTrainerAircraft on Wednesday morning during what was described as a routine training sortie.
The tragic accident occurred near #Churu, in the Rajaldesar region of Rajasthan, sending shockwaves through the defence community and prompting immediate emergency response efforts.
The pilots have been identified as Squadron Leader Lokendra Singh Sindhu, 3, from Haryana’s Rohtak, and Lieutenant Rishi Raj Singh, 2,3, hailing from Pali in Rajasthan.
IAF Confirms Fatal Crash, Orders Court of Inquiry
In a formal statement released shortly after the incident, the Indian Air Force said:
An IAF Jaguar Trainer aircraft met with an accident during a routine training mission and crashed near Churu in Rajasthan today. Both pilots sustained fatal injuries in the accident.”
“No damage to civilian property has been reported. A #C Court of Inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident.”
The IAF added that it “deeply regrets the loss of lives” and extended its condolences and solidarity with the families of the deceased pilots during this period of immense grief. #IAFTribute #DefenceNews #MilitaryTraining
Crash Site and Local Response
According to officials from #RajasthanPolice, the crash occurred at approximately 1:25 PM in Bhanoda village, located in the Ratangarh subdivision of Churu district.
The aircraft reportedly crashed in an agricultural field, and burning debris was visible shortly after the impact. #ChuruCrash #AirForceAccident
Kamlesh, Station House Officer (SHO) of Rajaldesar, confirmed the details, stating that human remains were discovered near the wreckage, confirming the fatalities. Locals were the first to arrive at the crash site, where they witnessed the flaming wreckage of the aircraft.
The area was soon cordoned off as emergency responders, including police teams from Rajaldesar and Ratangarh, fire brigade units, and ambulances, rushed in to control the scene and assist in relief measures. #EmergencyResponse #RajasthanNews
Condolences from State Leadership
The tragic accident prompted heartfelt reactions from top political leaders in Rajasthan. #RajasthanGovernor #HaribhauBagade and Chief Minister #BhajanlalSharma both expressed deep sorrow over the untimely deaths of the pilots.
In a post shared on X (formerly Twitter), Chief Minister Sharma said:
“Sad news of the crash of an Indian Air Force plane in Ratangarh area of Churu district has been received. Immediately after the incident, the administration is in alert mode and instructions have been given to the officials for relief and rescue work.”
He also offered prayers for the departed souls, acknowledging their service to the nation. #BhajanlalSharma #IAFPilots #NationMourns