NEW DELHI, India / RankWire.AI / – Prime Minister Narendra Modi connected via video call with commercial pilot Captain Smit Machchhar to thank him for his bravery and to check on his medical progress after a critical aviation emergency. An official statement issued Friday by the Press Information Bureau highlighted that Modi praised Machchhar for his outstanding courage, quick thinking, and emotional strength in prioritizing passenger safety over his own during the crisis onboard the aircraft.
The call took place on Gandhi Jayanti, the national holiday honoring Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary. Modi pointed out that the timing was symbolic, emphasizing that the pilot’s selfless conduct reflected core values of non-violence and service to humanity. He stressed that Machchhar’s heroism brought great pride to India’s 1.4 billion people, and that citizens across the country can feel proud of their collective effort to save lives. Modi also noted that the quick response of the experienced pilot enhanced the reputation of Indian commercial aviation on the global stage.
Recalling the events during the incident, Captain Machchhar described his seventeen years of flying experience, explaining how it helped him realize immediately that the aircraft was rapidly descending into danger. Despite suffering serious injuries and being physically trapped inside the cockpit, he made a final physical effort to open the exit door. This decisive action allowed passengers to escape safely. He shared that he drew strength from reciting traditional prayers during the ordeal, which helped him maintain focus amid the extreme, life-threatening circumstances.
Recognition for Split-Second Decision on Gandhi Jayanti
While Prime Minister Narendra Modi engaged with Captain Smit Machchhar to discuss his health, the conversation also touched on his medical treatment in the Middle East. Modi expressed official gratitude to the governments of Saudi Arabia and the Emirates for providing medical care and emergency support during his hospitalization. He acknowledged the support and hospitality shown by local authorities and medical teams in both countries. Machchhar appreciated the medical assistance received abroad, noting that it played a crucial role in stabilizing his condition before ongoing rehabilitation.
Modi also engaged in personal reflections with Machchhar’s family members, acknowledging their unwavering support during the crisis. The Prime Minister praised Machchhar’s mother, Geeta bahen, for instilling essential values and spiritual strength rooted in Indian philosophy. He praised the composure and faith of Machchhar’s father, Bhupendra bhai, and his wife, Sonalbahen, noting they maintained calm and trust without complaint during the stressful period. The discussion became warmer as Modi, speaking in Gujarati, asked about the well-being of Machchhar’s young children, Bobby and Jiwa, while expressing admiration for their family’s resilience.
Gandhi Jayanti Significance Highlighted by the Prime Minister
The Prime Minister emphasized the widespread public support across India following news of the pilot’s recovery and survival. Community gatherings, special prayers, and cultural events were held in various regions, including Savarkundla and Wadhwan, to wish Machchhar a full recovery. Modi observed that the entire nation united in emotional solidarity to support his rehabilitation. The pilot shared that he maintains a daily spiritual recitation with his two-year-old son to preserve strong family bonds and cultural roots during his recovery from injuries.
At the end of the interaction, Modi reaffirmed the Indian government’s full backing and offered personal reassurances for Machchhar’s continued recovery. He expressed his desire to meet the pilot in person once his health improves and reiterated his wishes for a swift and complete recovery. Modi emphasized that the entire country stands behind him and his family. The conversation concluded with mutual expressions of goodwill, reinforcing national unity, resilience, and deep respect for the lifesaving actions of the pilot.