MiG-29 crashes, locals run to rescue IAF pilot, earn Punjab CM’s praise

After locals from Nawanshahr in Hoshiarpur district rushed to rescue the IAF pilot after his MiG-29 crashed. The pilot and ejected himself. Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh thanked and applauded the locals for their efforts.   

Hoshiarpur: Citizens of Punjab are known for their rating nature to help people. And this was proved once again when locals rushed to rescue IAF pilot, who had ejected himself after his MiG-29 crashed. Taking note of the locals’ efforts and concern, Punjab CM Captain Amarinder Singh applauded them. 

The incident happened on Friday morning at  10:30 am near Nawanshahr at Hoshiarpur District. According to IAF spokesperson, the MiG-29 aircraft was on a training mission from an Air Force base near Jalandhar. "The aircraft had developed a technical snag and the pilot ejected safely as he was unable to control the aircraft," an official said, according to a news agency quoted. 

The CM shared the video where the locals were seen attending to the pilot and shielding him from the scorching sun by making a makeshift tent with their turbans. This actions by the locals won the CM's heart, who soon took to Twitter to say, "Proud of you all."

"I am relieved to know that @IAF_MCC pilot ejected to safety in Hoshiarpur after his MIG-29 crashed today. Thank the local people for immediately rushing to the aid of the pilot. Proud of you all!," the Punjab chief minister said in a tweet. 

The pilot, identified as Wing Commander MK Pandey, ejected safely and was rescued by locals and soon was air lifted through a helicopter. Now, court of inquiry has been ordered to probe the reason behind the the incident.