New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Thursday praised Indian pilot Captain Smit Machchhar’s bravery for fighting valiantly and preventing another 9/11-like attack, without fearing for his own life.
Addressing the centenary celebrations of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) here, he said that Captain Machchhar has shown the world the highest form of courage.
The prime minister said that without fearing for his own life, Captain Machchhar fought valiantly and prevented another 9/11-like attack from happening, a statement issued by his office said.
He said that 140 crore Indians salute Captain Machchhar and are praying for his well-being.
The prime minister said that he also spoke with the injured Captain’s father, mother and wife.
“He is undergoing treatment. Today, the entire world is proud of him. I urge my fellow citizens to pray for Smit’s long life and excellent health, and to honour our brother Smit, who has brought glory to India,” PM Modi said.
For every Indian, Smit’s bravery fills our heart with pride, he said.
The flydubai flight FZ1073, travelling from Dubai to Tel Aviv, had transmitted emergency signals on Wednesday and made a sharp descent of more than 17,000 feet from 34,000 feet before diverting to Prince Sultan Bin Abdulaziz Airport in Saudi Arabia’s Tabuk city. The flight was carrying 174 passengers, including 27 children.
