Gp Capt Varun Singh succumbs to injuries

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, December 15

Indian Air Force pilot Group Captain Varun Singh (39), who sustained injuries in the December 8 Coonoor copter crash that killed Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, died at a military hospital in Bengaluru this morning.

Nation grateful: Prez

Though badly injured, he displayed soldierly spirit of valour. The nation is grateful to him. Ram Nath Kovind, President

Unforgettable valour

I’m extremely anguished… Gp Capt Varun Singh’s valour and rich service to the nation will never be forgotten. Narendra Modi, Prime Minister

He is survived by an 11-year-old son, eight-year-old daughter and his wife. His father, Colonel KP Singh (retd), had served in the Army Air Defence (AAD).

Condoling his death, President Ram Nath Kovind tweeted, “Though badly injured in the chopper crash, he (Group Captain Varun Singh) displayed the soldierly spirit of valour and indomitable courage. The nation is grateful to him.

My condolences to his family.”

PM Narendra Modi tweeted, “Group Captain Varun Singh served the nation with pride, valour and utmost professionalism. I am extremely anguished by his passing away. His rich service to the nation will never be forgotten. Condolences to his family and friends. Om Shanti.”

Describing the Group Captain as a “true fighter”, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said he fought till his last breath. Group Captain Varun Singh, who studied at Army Public School, Chandimandir, was a decorated officer.

He was a test pilot for Tejas.

Gen Naravane heads Chiefs of Staff Committee

Army Chief Gen MM Naravane has taken over as Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee comprising three Service Chiefs
The post fell vacant following the death of Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat in a crash