• Sujal Pradhan, NET Correspondent, Sikkim 

The Sikkim Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang-Golay today paid his heartfelt tribute and homage to India’s first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen Bipin Rawat, his spouse Madhulika Rawat, and 12 other bravehearts who were killed during the recent IAF chopper crash at Coonoor, Tamil Nadu on December 8, 2021 today.

Organized by Rajya Sainik Board and Sikkim Government, the sombre ceremony took place at MG Marg.

A Guard of Honour and Last Post was given on the occasion by the jawans of the Armed Force 17 Mountain Division.

This sombre ceremony witnessed the presence and participation of Army officials, war veterans who showed their valour during the Indo Pakistan War of 1971 under 5-11 Gorkha Rifles, and public.

According to an IPR report, “India’s first CDS General Bipin Rawat was known for his impeccable leadership. He held a special place for Sikkim and its people as it was under his direction and signature that the Sikkim Scouts was raised. It was under his guidance that the first 968 cadets under Sikkim Scouts were recruited, which led to creation of employment opportunities for 2500 more cadets. The General always used to wear the ‘Sikkim Scouts’ tab which is affiliated with the 11th Gorkha Rifles and used its insignia and flag along with the words Sikkim Scouts.”

“Along with Gen Rawat, it is also a matter of pride and honour that Lt Col Harjinder Singh and Havaldar Satpal Rai who died during the crash had served in the Sikkim Scouts.” – the report further reads.

Its worthy to note that the tragic incident of Indian Air Force (IAF)’s Mi-17V5 helicopter crash on December 8, left the entire nation teary-eyed, as India lost its first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) Gen Bipin Rawat, his wife – President of Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA) Madhulika Rawat, along with 12 other bravehearts.

This IAF chopper crashed shortly in Coonoor, after it took-off from the Sulur Air Force base in Tamil Nadu.

The Indian Air Force (IAF)’s Mi-17V5 helicopter is a Russian-made one of the most advanced military transport choppers.

Designed to carry personnel, equipment and cargo, this latest twin-engine version of Russian Mi-17 transport helicopter is considered to be extremely reliable, which is also used to ferry VIPs including the President and Prime Minister. These helicopters were purchased and inducted by the Indian Air Force between 2013 & 2018.