A massive fire has engulfed a natural-gas producing well of Oil India Limited (OIL) in upper Assam's Tinsukia district, that has been leaking gas for the last 14 days.

Two firefighters who were engaged in controlling a blaze in Assam’s Baghjan were killed on Wednesday. Their bodies were found near the natural gas well that ignited on Tuesday.

The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) confirmed that the bodies of Durlov Gogoi, 30 and Bikeshwar Gohain, 56, were found from a pond near the well at Baghjan.

The oil well, part of Baghjan oil fields, had suffered damage after a blowout on May 27 and has been spewing gas since then.

Smoke from the fire&nbsp;can reportedly be seen from 10 km away and locals claim it has spread to nearby villages.

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Massive fire at the gas well of Oil India Ltd at Baghjan in Tinsukia district, Assam. A team of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is present at the spot <a href="https://t.co/Tw2G92aPXy">pic.twitter.com/Tw2G92aPXy</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1270309788568571906?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Several fire tenders from Oil India Limited, ONGC, and Tinsukia and Dibrugarh districts were rushed to the spot. A company spokesperson said while no casualty was reported in the incident, one ONGC employee suffered minor injuries. The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained.

The Indian Air Force and the Army are assisting in the firefighting operations, after the Sarbananda Sonowal government requested for help. The Air Force has sent three fire engines, and the Army has reached the area and is on stand-by. The area has been cordoned off by paramilitary forces.&nbsp;

Nearly 3,000 people from Baghjan were evacuated and at least one dolphin, one particolored flying squirrel and a variety of fish died as condensate — residue from gas condensing after coming in contact with water.

A statement from OIL said, ''While cleaning operations were on at the well site, the well caught fire. Fire tenders are at the site controlling the spread of fire.''

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While the clearing operations were on at the well site, the well caught fire.There is no casualty reported. Fire tenders are at the site controlling the spread of fire. There r violent protests around the well site. Once the situation is normal, the experts will move to the site. <a href="https://t.co/HaCgLGeQtr">pic.twitter.com/HaCgLGeQtr</a>
— Oil India Limited (@OilIndiaLimited) <a href="https://twitter.com/OilIndiaLimited/status/1270357665747619840?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 9, 2020</a></blockquote>
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There were protests in the area as the fire broke out, threatening the lives and livelihood of the people already facing the impact of the blowout for the last two weeks amid the Covid-19 crisis.

A massive fire has engulfed a natural-gas producing well of Oil India Limited (OIL) in upper Assam's Tinsukia district, that has been leaking gas for the last 14 days.

A massive fire has engulfed a natural-gas producing well of Oil India Limited (OIL) in upper Assam's Tinsukia district, that has been leaking gas for the last 14 days. Two firefighters who were engaged in controlling a blaze in Assam’s Baghjan were killed on Wednesday. Their bodies were found near the natural gas well that ignited on Tuesday. The National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) confirmed that the bodies of Durlov Gogoi, 30 and Bikeshwar Gohain, 56, were found from a pond near the well at Baghjan. The oil well, part of Baghjan oil fields, had suffered damage after a blowout on May 27 and has been spewing gas since then. Smoke from the fire can reportedly be seen from 10 km away and locals claim it has spread to nearby villages. #WATCH Massive fire at the gas well of Oil India Ltd at Baghjan in Tinsukia district, Assam. A team of National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) is present at the spot pic.twitter.com/Tw2G92aPXy — ANI (@ANI) June 9, 2020 × Several fire tenders from Oil India Limited, ONGC, and Tinsukia and Dibrugarh districts were rushed to the spot. A company spokesperson said while no casualty was reported in the incident, one ONGC employee suffered minor injuries. The cause of the fire is yet to be ascertained. The Indian Air Force and the Army are assisting in the firefighting operations, after the Sarbananda Sonowal government requested for help. The Air Force has sent three fire engines, and the Army has reached the area and is on stand-by. The area has been cordoned off by paramilitary forces. Nearly 3,000 people from Baghjan were evacuated and at least one dolphin, one particolored flying squirrel and a variety of fish died as condensate — residue from gas condensing after coming in contact with water. A statement from OIL said, ''While cleaning operations were on at the well site, the well caught fire. Fire tenders are at the site controlling the spread of fire.'' While the clearing operations were on at the well site, the well caught fire.There is no casualty reported. Fire tenders are at the site controlling the spread of fire. There r violent protests around the well site. Once the situation is normal, the experts will move to the site. pic.twitter.com/HaCgLGeQtr — Oil India Limited (@OilIndiaLimited) June 9, 2020 × There were protests in the area as the fire broke out, threatening the lives and livelihood of the people already facing the impact of the blowout for the last two weeks amid the Covid-19 crisis.

Massive fire engulfs OIL-owned well in Assam, two firefighters killed

Construction of emergency runway for Indian Air Force has started in Bijbehara area of Anantnag district in South Kashmir amid the Indo-China crisis. Watch this video to get more details.

Construction of IAF's emergency runway starts in South Kashmir amid Indo-China crisis

The construction of a 3.5-kilometre-long emergency runway-cum-landing strip for the Indian Airforce has started adjacent to the National Highway NH-44 in Bijbehara area of South Kashmir.

The runway will be strategically important for the defence forces in the valley and will help in rescue and relief operation in natural climates and other situations.

The airstrip is targeted to be completed in just 8 months with men and machinery working hard to complete the target. The construction is being done by the National Highways Authority of India through its contractors.

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“This is an emergency runway. We have 8 months to complete this project but due to lockdown and bad weather, we had to stop this work,” Parveen, a survey engineer told WION.

In 2017, the Indian Airforce cleared 12 national highways as emergency landing airstrips across India which includes Maoist-affected Odisha, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, reports said.

This is the first such project in Jammu &amp; Kashmir where India and Pakistan airforces engaged in an aerial dogfight after the Pulwama terror attack in 2019 which killed 40 CRPF men.

The runway can be used by the fighter jets &amp; helicopters to land and take off in emergencies.

The construction of a 3.5-kilometre-long emergency runway-cum-landing strip for the Indian Airforce has started adjacent to the National Highway NH-44 in Bijbehara area of South Kashmir.

The construction of a 3.5-kilometre-long emergency runway-cum-landing strip for the Indian Airforce has started adjacent to the National Highway NH-44 in Bijbehara area of South Kashmir. The runway will be strategically important for the defence forces in the valley and will help in rescue and relief operation in natural climates and other situations. The airstrip is targeted to be completed in just 8 months with men and machinery working hard to complete the target. The construction is being done by the National Highways Authority of India through its contractors. “This is an emergency runway. We have 8 months to complete this project but due to lockdown and bad weather, we had to stop this work,” Parveen, a survey engineer told WION. In 2017, the Indian Airforce cleared 12 national highways as emergency landing airstrips across India which includes Maoist-affected Odisha, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand, reports said. This is the first such project in Jammu & Kashmir where India and Pakistan airforces engaged in an aerial dogfight after the Pulwama terror attack in 2019 which killed 40 CRPF men. The runway can be used by the fighter jets & helicopters to land and take off in emergencies.

Construction of emergency landing airstrip on NH-44 for Indian Airforce starts in Kashmir

Indian Air Force was forced to rush its fighter jet patrols in Ladakh after Chinese military choppers were found to be flying close to the Line of Actual Control, according to news agency ANI.

Indian Air Force was forced to rush its fighter jet patrols in Ladakh after Chinese military choppers were found to be flying close to the Line of Actual Control, according to news agency ANI. The incident took place last week, around the same time a scuffle broke out between the Chinese People`s Liberation Army troops and Indian troops along the LAC in North Sikkim which led to injuries on both sides. "The Chinese military helicopters were flying very close to the Line of Actual Control. After their movement was picked up, the Indian Air Force fighter jets flew patrols in the area," government sources told. Government sources who requested anonymity due to knowledge of frontline operations informed that the Chinese choppers did not cross the LAC into Indian territory in that particular area, the report stated quoting the government sources. The latest development comes close on the heels of Indian security establishment noticing that Pakistani Air Force increased its patrols of F-16S and JF-17s along its Eastern Border with India, especially night sorties, after the Handwara terror attack that led to the death of 5 Indian security personnel. Fear of retaliation by Indian forces was cited as the reason by Indian security establishment sources for this ramping up of PAF air patrols.

IAF fighters rushed in after Chinese choppers spotted near Ladakh LAC: Report

A Mig-29 aircraft of the Indian Air Force airborne on a training mission from an Air Force base near Jalandhar met with an accident.&nbsp;

The aircraft had developed a technical snag and the pilot ejected safely as he was unable to control the aircraft. The pilot has been rescued by a helicopter.&nbsp;

A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to investigate the cause of the accident.

A Mig-29 aircraft of the Indian Air Force airborne on a training mission from an Air Force base near Jalandhar met with an accident. The aircraft had developed a technical snag and the pilot ejected safely as he was unable to control the aircraft.

A Mig-29 aircraft of the Indian Air Force airborne on a training mission from an Air Force base near Jalandhar met with an accident. The aircraft had developed a technical snag and the pilot ejected safely as he was unable to control the aircraft. The pilot has been rescued by a helicopter. A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to investigate the cause of the accident.

Indian Air Force jet crashes in Punjab; pilot ejects safely

Indian Navy chopper showered rose petals over health workers, especially frontline staff at the Goa Medical College, the state''s biggest hospital and a quarantine facility for Covid-19 patients

Navy chopper showers rose petals on Goa Medical college

Indian Air Force (IAF) started a flypast to thank and appreciate the COVID-19 warriors on Sunday morning. The flypast started from Srinagar's beautiful Dal lake.&nbsp;

According to the IAF officials, two C-130J Super Hercules special operations transport started their journey from Srinagar and will fly all the way to Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jammu-and-kashmir-colonel-major-killed-in-kupwara-encounter-296332">Also read:&nbsp;Jammu and Kashmir: Colonel, major killed in Kupwara encounter</a>

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> IAF chopper showers flower petals on All India Institute of Medical Sciences to express gratitude and appreciation towards medical professionals fighting COVID19<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Delhi?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Delhi</a> <a href="https://t.co/BLqaptSaDx">pic.twitter.com/BLqaptSaDx</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1256832592147550208?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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&nbsp;

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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a> Two IAF C-130J Super Hercules special operations transport aircraft fly over Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh. The aircraft took off from Srinagar,J&amp;K and will fly all the way to Trivandrum in Kerala to show gratitude towards COVID-19 warriors. <a href="https://t.co/iFGSrbFGq0">pic.twitter.com/iFGSrbFGq0</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1256789487876743169?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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The planes will be showering flower petals on some selected hospitals that have played a key role in treating coronavirus patients.&nbsp;

"The list of hospitals include AllMS, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital, GTB Hospital, Loknayak Hospital, RML Hospital, Safdarjang Hospital, Ganga Ram Hospital, Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hospital, Max Saket, Rohini Hospital, Apollo Indraprastha Hospital, and Army Hospital R&amp;R," the Defence Ministry said in a statement.

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Meghalaya: Indian Air Force aircraft flypast Civil Hospital in Shillong to express gratitude towards health workers for their contribution in the fight against <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a> pandemic. <a href="https://t.co/15bDBR58pE">pic.twitter.com/15bDBR58pE</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1256824640581877760?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WATCH?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WATCH</a>: Indian Air Force chopper showers flower petals on Chirayu Medical College &amp; Hospital in Bhopal to express gratitude towards medical professionals fighting <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/COVID19?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#COVID19</a>. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MadhyaPradesh?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MadhyaPradesh</a> <a href="https://t.co/fi0AtFh2Uk">pic.twitter.com/fi0AtFh2Uk</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1256822824980938752?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 3, 2020</a></blockquote>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/two-militants-killed-in-kashmir-encounter-operation-underway-296224">Also read: Two militants killed in Kashmir encounter; operation underway</a>

These planes are not only doing a flypast to show gratitude but are also carrying medical supplies to be delivered at an airbase. This activity is also being used as a&nbsp;part of&nbsp;the training activity of IAF and opportunity flight for transport aircraft and helicopters, which are involved in moving supplies related to the COVID-19 task.

Some IAF choppers, too, showed gratitude by showering flower petals on&nbsp;Police War Memorial and Delhi hospitals.

More such flypasts will be organised in the future, starting from Srinagar to Thiruvananthapuram, and&nbsp;from Dibrugarh in Assam to Kutch in Gujarat.

"Fighter aircraft formations, comprising Sukhoi-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar will be flying over the Rajpath and will orbit over Delhi and will be visible to the residents from rooftops," said the statement.

Indian Air Force (IAF) started a flypast to thank and appreciate the COVID-19 warriors on Sunday morning. The flypast started from Srinagar's beautiful Dal lake.

Indian Air Force (IAF) started a flypast to thank and appreciate the COVID-19 warriors on Sunday morning. The flypast started from Srinagar's beautiful Dal lake. According to the IAF officials, two C-130J Super Hercules special operations transport started their journey from Srinagar and will fly all the way to Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. Also read: Jammu and Kashmir: Colonel, major killed in Kupwara encounter #WATCH IAF chopper showers flower petals on All India Institute of Medical Sciences to express gratitude and appreciation towards medical professionals fighting COVID19#Delhi pic.twitter.com/BLqaptSaDx — ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2020 × #WATCH Two IAF C-130J Super Hercules special operations transport aircraft fly over Sukhna Lake in Chandigarh. The aircraft took off from Srinagar,J&K and will fly all the way to Trivandrum in Kerala to show gratitude towards COVID-19 warriors. pic.twitter.com/iFGSrbFGq0 — ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2020 × The planes will be showering flower petals on some selected hospitals that have played a key role in treating coronavirus patients. "The list of hospitals include AllMS, Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospital, GTB Hospital, Loknayak Hospital, RML Hospital, Safdarjang Hospital, Ganga Ram Hospital, Baba Saheb Ambedkar Hospital, Max Saket, Rohini Hospital, Apollo Indraprastha Hospital, and Army Hospital R&R," the Defence Ministry said in a statement. Meghalaya: Indian Air Force aircraft flypast Civil Hospital in Shillong to express gratitude towards health workers for their contribution in the fight against #COVID19 pandemic. pic.twitter.com/15bDBR58pE — ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2020 × #WATCH: Indian Air Force chopper showers flower petals on Chirayu Medical College & Hospital in Bhopal to express gratitude towards medical professionals fighting #COVID19. #MadhyaPradesh pic.twitter.com/fi0AtFh2Uk — ANI (@ANI) May 3, 2020 × Also read: Two militants killed in Kashmir encounter; operation underway These planes are not only doing a flypast to show gratitude but are also carrying medical supplies to be delivered at an airbase. This activity is also being used as a part of the training activity of IAF and opportunity flight for transport aircraft and helicopters, which are involved in moving supplies related to the COVID-19 task. Some IAF choppers, too, showed gratitude by showering flower petals on Police War Memorial and Delhi hospitals. More such flypasts will be organised in the future, starting from Srinagar to Thiruvananthapuram, and from Dibrugarh in Assam to Kutch in Gujarat. "Fighter aircraft formations, comprising Sukhoi-30 MKI, MiG-29 and Jaguar will be flying over the Rajpath and will orbit over Delhi and will be visible to the residents from rooftops," said the statement.

IAF starts flypast from Dal Lake to salute COVID-19 workers; transporting medical supplies too

The Indian Air Force (IAF) conducted a fly-past over Dal Lake in Srinagar on Sunday morning to express gratitude to medical professionals and other frontline workers at the forefront of battle against the deadly Coronavirus.

IAF conducts flypasts across the Nation, C-130 hercules flies over Delhi

The Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Indian Navy joined hands on Sunday (May 3) to express their gratitude to corona warriors, including healthcare workers, police, and forces who are at the forefront of the battle against the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic.

Illuminated Indian naval vessels salute coronavirus warriors

How armed forces warriors thanked corona fighters

Indian Air Force's C-17 Globalmaster has left for Iran to evacuate Indian stranded in the country as the coronavirus pandemic spreads in the west Asian country. The plane with 14 Air Force officers and four medical staff is led by Wing Commander Karan Kapoor and will be landing in the Iranian capital at 2 am IST.&nbsp;

While no details have been given on how many Indians will be brought back, the number could be 100 or more.&nbsp;

The C17 leaves Tehran at 4 am IST and reaches India at 9 am IST on Tuesday.&nbsp;

This is the second time C17 is being sent to evacuate Indians this year.&nbsp;In February end, India had sent C17 to evacuate Indians from Wuhan, China.

Sources said, more sorties of IAF can be expected to evacuate Indian citizens in coming days.&nbsp;

India will be evacuating its pilgrims first from Iran, followed by students stranded in the country in the backdrop of coronavirus pandemic.&nbsp;

New Delhi has also set up a medical screening centre in the central Iranian city of Qom, which is the worst impacted by the pandemic.&nbsp;

The Indian government is negotiating with the Iranian government to establish more screening centres in other cities of Iran.

Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with parents of stranded Indian students in Srinagar and assured that the Indian government is doing its best to bring them back.

The Indian govt will be facilitating the return via normal civil aviation channels by resuming and rearranging flights and medical screening before leaving Iran. Currently, there are no direct flights between India and Iran as the flight operation stands cancelled due to coronavirus epidemic.

Iran evacuated 215 of its citizens from India. A flight from Iran arrived in India on Saturday carrying swab samples of 180 Indians. The samples are being tested at a laboratory in AIIMS. Six scientists from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) are stationed in Iran.

Indian Air Force's C-17 Globalmaster has left for Iran to evacuate Indian stranded in the country as the coronavirus pandemic spreads in the west Asian country. The plane with 14 Air Force officers and four medical staff is led by Wing Commander Karan Kapoor and will be landing in the Iranian capital at 2 am IST.

Indian Air Force's C-17 Globalmaster has left for Iran to evacuate Indian stranded in the country as the coronavirus pandemic spreads in the west Asian country. The plane with 14 Air Force officers and four medical staff is led by Wing Commander Karan Kapoor and will be landing in the Iranian capital at 2 am IST. While no details have been given on how many Indians will be brought back, the number could be 100 or more. The C17 leaves Tehran at 4 am IST and reaches India at 9 am IST on Tuesday. This is the second time C17 is being sent to evacuate Indians this year. In February end, India had sent C17 to evacuate Indians from Wuhan, China. Sources said, more sorties of IAF can be expected to evacuate Indian citizens in coming days. India will be evacuating its pilgrims first from Iran, followed by students stranded in the country in the backdrop of coronavirus pandemic. New Delhi has also set up a medical screening centre in the central Iranian city of Qom, which is the worst impacted by the pandemic. The Indian government is negotiating with the Iranian government to establish more screening centres in other cities of Iran. Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with parents of stranded Indian students in Srinagar and assured that the Indian government is doing its best to bring them back. The Indian govt will be facilitating the return via normal civil aviation channels by resuming and rearranging flights and medical screening before leaving Iran. Currently, there are no direct flights between India and Iran as the flight operation stands cancelled due to coronavirus epidemic. Iran evacuated 215 of its citizens from India. A flight from Iran arrived in India on Saturday carrying swab samples of 180 Indians. The samples are being tested at a laboratory in AIIMS. Six scientists from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) are stationed in Iran.

COVID-19: IAF's C-17 departs for Iran to evacuate stranded Indians  

The Indian Air Force will be sending its C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft tonight to Iran to evacuate Indians stuck there due to the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/covid-19-number-of-confirmed-cases-soar-to-43-new-cases-from-up-delhi-jammu-kerala-285216">coronavirus</a> outbreak.

The C-17 Globemaster aircraft had earlier taken medical supplies to China amid the coronavirus crisis and evacuated several Indian and foreigners.

Watch Video:

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Iran has been one of the countries worst hit by the virus with 43 new deaths from the novel coronavirus reported today taking the death toll to 237.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/qatar-bans-arrivals-from-14-countries-including-india-over-coronavirus-fears-285153">Also Read: Qatar bans arrivals from 14 countries including India over coronavirus fears</a>

Tehran reported 1,945 cases, with the city of Qom being the second worst-hit with 712 confirmed cases.

Iran Air had earlier announced the suspension of all its flights to Europe until further notice as the virus spread nationwide.

According to reports, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) had banned Iran Air aircraft from European airspace.

Sweden had announced temporary suspension of Iran Air flights after the advice of health officials who said the country was "not in control" of the coronavirus outbreak on its soil.

The Indian Air Force will be sending its C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft tonight to Iran to evacuate Indians stuck there due to the coronavirus outbreak. The C-17 Globemaster aircraft had earlier taken medical supplies to China amid the coronavirus crisis and evacuated several Indian and foreigners.

The Indian Air Force will be sending its C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft tonight to Iran to evacuate Indians stuck there due to the coronavirus outbreak. The C-17 Globemaster aircraft had earlier taken medical supplies to China amid the coronavirus crisis and evacuated several Indian and foreigners. Watch Video: Iran has been one of the countries worst hit by the virus with 43 new deaths from the novel coronavirus reported today taking the death toll to 237. Also Read: Qatar bans arrivals from 14 countries including India over coronavirus fears Tehran reported 1,945 cases, with the city of Qom being the second worst-hit with 712 confirmed cases. Iran Air had earlier announced the suspension of all its flights to Europe until further notice as the virus spread nationwide. According to reports, the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) had banned Iran Air aircraft from European airspace. Sweden had announced temporary suspension of Iran Air flights after the advice of health officials who said the country was "not in control" of the coronavirus outbreak on its soil.

Coronavirus outbreak: IAF's C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft to leave for Iran to bring back Indians

An Indian Air Force (IAF) <a href="&quot;This assistance has been provided in the wake the Coronavirus (Covid 19) outbreak in China and the request by China to provide supplies such as masks and medical equipment,&quot; the statement read.">special flight carrying around 15 Tons of medical assistance comprising masks</a>, gloves and other emergency medical equipment departed for the coronavirus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan on Wednesday.

The AIF flight will also bring back Indian and foreign nationals from some of the neighbouring countries, who had sought assistance in travelling to India, in keeping with New Delhi's neighbourhood first policy, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement.

"This assistance has been provided in the wake the Coronavirus (Covid 19) outbreak in China and the request by China to provide supplies such as masks and medical equipment," the statement read.

The medical supplies will help augment China`s efforts to control the outbreak of this infection which has claimed more than 2700 lives in the country and has been declared as a Public Health Emergency by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

The development comes more than two weeks after Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote to Chinese President Xi Jinping, offering assistance to China amid the outbreak of the disease.

"The assistance being sent today is also a mark of friendship and solidarity from the people of India towards the people of China as the two countries also celebrate 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations this year," the statement read.

Coronavirus first originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan and has since then spread to several countries across the world, including India.

An Indian Air Force (IAF) special flight carrying around 15 Tons of medical assistance comprising masks, gloves and other emergency medical equipment departed for the coronavirus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan on Wednesday.

An Indian Air Force (IAF) special flight carrying around 15 Tons of medical assistance comprising masks, gloves and other emergency medical equipment departed for the coronavirus-hit Chinese city of Wuhan on Wednesday. The AIF flight will also bring back Indian and foreign nationals from some of the neighbouring countries, who had sought assistance in travelling to India, in keeping with New Delhi's neighbourhood first policy, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. "This assistance has been provided in the wake the Coronavirus (Covid 19) outbreak in China and the request by China to provide supplies such as masks and medical equipment," the statement read. The medical supplies will help augment China`s efforts to control the outbreak of this infection which has claimed more than 2700 lives in the country and has been declared as a Public Health Emergency by the World Health Organisation (WHO). The development comes more than two weeks after Prime Minister Narendra Modi wrote to Chinese President Xi Jinping, offering assistance to China amid the outbreak of the disease. "The assistance being sent today is also a mark of friendship and solidarity from the people of India towards the people of China as the two countries also celebrate 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations this year," the statement read. Coronavirus first originated in the Chinese city of Wuhan and has since then spread to several countries across the world, including India.

IAF special flight carrying medical assistance departs for coronavirus-hit Wuhan

One year ago on this day, Indian Air Force aircrafts bombed a terrorist training camp deep inside Pakistan, in response to the Pulwama attack which had killed over 40 Indian Army soldiers. During the operation, 12 Indian fighter jets entered Pakistan controlled airspace and destroyed a major terror camp in Balakot.

Balakot airstrike anniversary: When IAF crossed into Pakistan and bombed JeM camps

Indian Air Force(IAF) C-17 Globemaster aircraft is on a medical mission to Wuhan in China as the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-state-of-emergency-declared-in-san-francisco-282798">coronavirus</a> continues to spread nationwide.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-outbreak-another-person-dies-in-france-as-death-toll-rises-in-iran-282881">Also Read:&nbsp;Coronavirus outbreak -&nbsp;Another person dies in France as death toll rises in Iran</a> 
 
"We are carrying about 15 tonnes of medical equipment. On our way back, we shall be carrying Indians and&nbsp;citizens of friendly neighbourhood countries," IAF's Group Captain AK Patnaik told ANI. 
 
There were reports earlier that China was reportedly delaying granting clearance to Indian Air Force's C-17 Globemaster. 
 
India has already evacuated over 600 citizens from Wuhan which is the epicentre of the virus. China had reportedly denied permission to the aircraft last week. 
 
On February 17, India had announced that it will send its largest IAF plane to bring back all nationals from Wuhan. 
 
Meanwhile, China on Wednesday reported 52 new coronavirus deaths taking the death toll to 2,715. All the deaths were reported in Hubei province which is the epicentre of the virus. The virus which originated in Wuhan has now spread to various parts of China with 78,000 infected. 
 
The virus has now spread to several countries including in West Asia and Europe. 
 
In South Korea, the death toll from the virus rose to 11 on Wednesday, as the country's total number of infections rose to 1,146.

Indian Air Force(IAF) C-17 Globemaster aircraft is on a medical mission to Wuhan in China as the coronavirus continues to spread nationwide. Also Read: Coronavirus outbreak - Another person dies in France as death toll rises in Iran "We are carrying about 15 tonnes of medical equipment.

Indian Air Force(IAF) C-17 Globemaster aircraft is on a medical mission to Wuhan in China as the coronavirus continues to spread nationwide. Also Read: Coronavirus outbreak - Another person dies in France as death toll rises in Iran "We are carrying about 15 tonnes of medical equipment. On our way back, we shall be carrying Indians and citizens of friendly neighbourhood countries," IAF's Group Captain AK Patnaik told ANI. There were reports earlier that China was reportedly delaying granting clearance to Indian Air Force's C-17 Globemaster. India has already evacuated over 600 citizens from Wuhan which is the epicentre of the virus. China had reportedly denied permission to the aircraft last week. On February 17, India had announced that it will send its largest IAF plane to bring back all nationals from Wuhan. Meanwhile, China on Wednesday reported 52 new coronavirus deaths taking the death toll to 2,715. All the deaths were reported in Hubei province which is the epicentre of the virus. The virus which originated in Wuhan has now spread to various parts of China with 78,000 infected. The virus has now spread to several countries including in West Asia and Europe. In South Korea, the death toll from the virus rose to 11 on Wednesday, as the country's total number of infections rose to 1,146.

Coronavirus outbreak: Indian Air Force to send C-17 Globemaster aircraft to Wuhan

China reportedly delaying granting clearance to Indian Air Force's C-17 Globemaster plane carrying relief supplies to China which will also bring back the remaining Indian nationals from Wuhan.

Sources have told WION that china is deliberately delaying granting clearance to the flight which will carry out evacuations in Wuhan.

India, which has already evacuated over 600 of its citizens from Wuhan, has been ready to send another flight to rescue its remaining nationals from the coronavirus epicentre.

While Beijing maintains that there is no delay, it has not yet given any official reason for the wait. The Indian flight was scheduled to leave for China on Friday, but couldn't due to the lack of permission.

Unlike the last time in which operations were carried out by civilian jets, this time around, India has sent a military aircraft.

February 17, New Delhi announced that it will send the IAF's largest plane to bring back all its nationals from Wuhan. The plane will also be carrying medical supplies.

Other nations including France are carrying out rescue operations in Wuhan.

The wait comes even as China said that it attached high importance to the lives and health of all foreign nationals in the country.

China reportedly delaying granting clearance to Indian Air Force's C-17 Globemaster plane carrying relief supplies to China which will also bring back the remaining Indian nationals from Wuhan.

China reportedly delaying granting clearance to Indian Air Force's C-17 Globemaster plane carrying relief supplies to China which will also bring back the remaining Indian nationals from Wuhan. Sources have told WION that china is deliberately delaying granting clearance to the flight which will carry out evacuations in Wuhan. India, which has already evacuated over 600 of its citizens from Wuhan, has been ready to send another flight to rescue its remaining nationals from the coronavirus epicentre. While Beijing maintains that there is no delay, it has not yet given any official reason for the wait. The Indian flight was scheduled to leave for China on Friday, but couldn't due to the lack of permission. Unlike the last time in which operations were carried out by civilian jets, this time around, India has sent a military aircraft. February 17, New Delhi announced that it will send the IAF's largest plane to bring back all its nationals from Wuhan. The plane will also be carrying medical supplies. Other nations including France are carrying out rescue operations in Wuhan. The wait comes even as China said that it attached high importance to the lives and health of all foreign nationals in the country.

Coronavirus: China delays India's Wuhan evacuation plan, say sources 

After playing a wrestler in Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/movie-review-panga-review-kangana-ranauts-film-is-a-heartwarming-ode-to-mothers-276263">'Panga', </a>Kangana Ranaut is all set to play a fighter pilot in upcoming film 'Tejas'.&nbsp;The makers unveiled the first look of her character on Twitter on Monday. Dressed in flying gear, Kangana can be seen holding her helmet and sports classic aviator sunglasses with hair tied in a bun. She poses with a fighter jet in the background. 
&nbsp; 
The Indian Air Force was the first of the country`s defence forces to induct women into combat roles in 2016. The film takes inspiration from this landmark event.

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Soaring high into the sky! 
Presenting the first look of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KanganaRanaut?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KanganaRanaut</a> as an Air force Pilot in <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Tejas?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Tejas</a>. ✈️<a href="https://twitter.com/KanganaTeam?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KanganaTeam</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/RonnieScrewvala?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@RonnieScrewvala</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/SarveshMewara?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#SarveshMewara</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/nonabains?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nonabains</a> <a href="https://t.co/vZzpD8pllw">pic.twitter.com/vZzpD8pllw</a>
— RSVP Movies (@RSVPMovies) <a href="https://twitter.com/RSVPMovies/status/1229247870097936385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Kangana, in a statement, said she felt honoured to play the character of a fighter pilot. "Very often the sacrifices made by our brave women in uniform go unnoticed by the nation. `Tejas` is a film where I have the honour of playing the role of one such Air Force pilot who puts country before self. I hope we instil a sense of patriotism and pride in the youth of today with this film. I am looking forward to the journey with Sarvesh and Ronnie on this one." 
 
The film will be produced by Ronnie Screwvala under the banner RSVP who last year produced 'Uri: The Surgical Strike'. Expressing his excitement for the project Ronnie stated, "We made an army-centric/army-based film with `Uri: The Surgical Strike`. `Tejas` is our dedication to the brave fighter pilots of the Indian Air Force, who always put the country first. We are excited and honoured to share this brave story with viewers and hope it inspires many more women to join the Air Force." 
 
&nbsp;The debutant director and writer of `Tejas`, Sarvesh Mewara said, "When your debut film has Ronnie Screwvala as the producer and Kangana Ranaut as the lead actor, going all out to chase your dreams feels worth it." 
 
`Tejas` is set to go on floors this summer and release will hit the theatres in April 2021.&nbsp;

(With inputs from ANI)

After playing a wrestler in Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari's 'Panga', Kangana Ranaut is all set to play a fighter pilot in upcoming film 'Tejas'. The makers unveiled the first look of her character on Twitter on Monday.

After playing a wrestler in Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari's 'Panga', Kangana Ranaut is all set to play a fighter pilot in upcoming film 'Tejas'. The makers unveiled the first look of her character on Twitter on Monday. Dressed in flying gear, Kangana can be seen holding her helmet and sports classic aviator sunglasses with hair tied in a bun. She poses with a fighter jet in the background. The Indian Air Force was the first of the country`s defence forces to induct women into combat roles in 2016. The film takes inspiration from this landmark event. Soaring high into the sky! Presenting the first look of #KanganaRanaut as an Air force Pilot in #Tejas. ✈️@KanganaTeam @RonnieScrewvala #SarveshMewara @nonabains pic.twitter.com/vZzpD8pllw — RSVP Movies (@RSVPMovies) February 17, 2020 × Kangana, in a statement, said she felt honoured to play the character of a fighter pilot. "Very often the sacrifices made by our brave women in uniform go unnoticed by the nation. `Tejas` is a film where I have the honour of playing the role of one such Air Force pilot who puts country before self. I hope we instil a sense of patriotism and pride in the youth of today with this film. I am looking forward to the journey with Sarvesh and Ronnie on this one." The film will be produced by Ronnie Screwvala under the banner RSVP who last year produced 'Uri: The Surgical Strike'. Expressing his excitement for the project Ronnie stated, "We made an army-centric/army-based film with `Uri: The Surgical Strike`. `Tejas` is our dedication to the brave fighter pilots of the Indian Air Force, who always put the country first. We are excited and honoured to share this brave story with viewers and hope it inspires many more women to join the Air Force." The debutant director and writer of `Tejas`, Sarvesh Mewara said, "When your debut film has Ronnie Screwvala as the producer and Kangana Ranaut as the lead actor, going all out to chase your dreams feels worth it." `Tejas` is set to go on floors this summer and release will hit the theatres in April 2021. (With inputs from ANI)

'Tejas' first look: Kangana Ranaut looks impressive as a fighter pilot 

The Indian Air Force needs to "reorient and retrain" itself to a changed paradigm of war, former Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said on Sunday.

He also said the Rafale fighter aircraft and S400 missile defence system will help restore technological asymmetry in India's favour.

"Though the Indian Air Force has trained itself to fight a full-scale conventional war in a joint campaign with sister services, it has to reorient and retrain itself to the changed paradigm. It must plan and address capability voids in due course of time," the former Air Chief Marshal said.

He was speaking on the topic 'IAF In The Changed Security Paradigm' at the fifth Flying Officer Nirmal Jeet Singh Sekhon PVC annual memorial lecture organised here by the Gujarat chapter of the Air Force Association.

Speaking on likely scenarios of the future, the IAF chief (retd) Dhanoa said, "We come to realise that sub-conventional conflict over terrorist attack on one of our installations and personnel has the highest probability of occurrence because it can happen anytime and anywhere. This is something for which we need to be prepared 24/7."

"A skirmish or a localised conflict like Kargil due to a terrorist attack that has gone awry like Uri and Pulwama is within the realm of possibility of our western neighbour," he said.

The former IAF chief added that there was a need to "re-prioritise our expenditure based on this changed paradigm".

"Hence spending on the integrated perimeter security system of our bases is more important than bemoaning not having a full authorised centre required for a two-front war," he said.

The former IAF chief also said, "With the induction of Rafale and S-400, the technological asymmetry will once again be restored in our favour. Even if there is going to be a paradigm shift in the way they are going to fight the next war, there is a need to have a technological superiority so that our deterrence remains effective and we can maintain the peace".

He underlined the needs for a "full-spectrum capability", as the enemy keeps modernising, and to address some of the "capability voids".

Stressing that cyber and space were two new domains which have to be defended strongly, the former ACM said, "The way we have a network-enabled force, there are so many systems riding on our communication network, and very shortly deployment of operational data link, we will become a network force."

"Cyber will have to be defended very strongly. Second is space, initially used only for telecommunication...Add a new dimension which has changed the paradigm," he added.

Former IAF chief Dhanoa said the surgical strike carried out in retaliation to the attack on the Uri base has signalled a paradigm shift in the way Indian government would respond to terrorist attacks involving mass casualties.

"A surgical strike was authorised, and Balakot strike was approved by the government to send a political message to Pakistan that such attacks will incur a heavy price.

"Pakistan government got the message that the new government will respond militarily to major terrorist attacks on its soil....This happened because of decisive national leadership in place, backed by the fact that should it escalate, we are ready for it at short notice. After all, it was a joint battle, and government cannot battle without all the three services being ready," he said.

Regarding the Balakot strike, the former IAF chief said going after a "non-military target" was "a very wise decision".

"The operational capability and our intelligence capability cannot be compromised to just try and win the perception battle in the media. But both the Pakistani establishment and (terror group) Jaish-e-Mohammed got the message," he said.

The former IAF chief further said that there were no major terror attacks between February and June 2019 till the conclusion of the Lok Sabha polls because the Army, Navy and Air Force were "forward-deployed to give a punitive response at very short notice."

He added that the attack on a terror camp in Pakistan was meant to give a message to that country's establishment, and "not to the Pakistani public, or an effort to win a propaganda battle with the Pakistani and international media".

"Had it been so, we would have used different weapons and different modes of attacks for which presently Pakistan has no counter," he added.

Lt General PM Hariz (retd) and Vice Admiral Vijay Shankar (retd) also delivered speeches on the occasion.&nbsp;

The Indian Air Force needs to "reorient and retrain" itself to a changed paradigm of war, former Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said on Sunday. He also said the Rafale fighter aircraft and S400 missile defence system will help restore technological asymmetry in India's favour.

The Indian Air Force needs to "reorient and retrain" itself to a changed paradigm of war, former Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa said on Sunday. He also said the Rafale fighter aircraft and S400 missile defence system will help restore technological asymmetry in India's favour. "Though the Indian Air Force has trained itself to fight a full-scale conventional war in a joint campaign with sister services, it has to reorient and retrain itself to the changed paradigm. It must plan and address capability voids in due course of time," the former Air Chief Marshal said. He was speaking on the topic 'IAF In The Changed Security Paradigm' at the fifth Flying Officer Nirmal Jeet Singh Sekhon PVC annual memorial lecture organised here by the Gujarat chapter of the Air Force Association. Speaking on likely scenarios of the future, the IAF chief (retd) Dhanoa said, "We come to realise that sub-conventional conflict over terrorist attack on one of our installations and personnel has the highest probability of occurrence because it can happen anytime and anywhere. This is something for which we need to be prepared 24/7." "A skirmish or a localised conflict like Kargil due to a terrorist attack that has gone awry like Uri and Pulwama is within the realm of possibility of our western neighbour," he said. The former IAF chief added that there was a need to "re-prioritise our expenditure based on this changed paradigm". "Hence spending on the integrated perimeter security system of our bases is more important than bemoaning not having a full authorised centre required for a two-front war," he said. The former IAF chief also said, "With the induction of Rafale and S-400, the technological asymmetry will once again be restored in our favour. Even if there is going to be a paradigm shift in the way they are going to fight the next war, there is a need to have a technological superiority so that our deterrence remains effective and we can maintain the peace". He underlined the needs for a "full-spectrum capability", as the enemy keeps modernising, and to address some of the "capability voids". Stressing that cyber and space were two new domains which have to be defended strongly, the former ACM said, "The way we have a network-enabled force, there are so many systems riding on our communication network, and very shortly deployment of operational data link, we will become a network force." "Cyber will have to be defended very strongly. Second is space, initially used only for telecommunication...Add a new dimension which has changed the paradigm," he added. Former IAF chief Dhanoa said the surgical strike carried out in retaliation to the attack on the Uri base has signalled a paradigm shift in the way Indian government would respond to terrorist attacks involving mass casualties. "A surgical strike was authorised, and Balakot strike was approved by the government to send a political message to Pakistan that such attacks will incur a heavy price. "Pakistan government got the message that the new government will respond militarily to major terrorist attacks on its soil....This happened because of decisive national leadership in place, backed by the fact that should it escalate, we are ready for it at short notice. After all, it was a joint battle, and government cannot battle without all the three services being ready," he said. Regarding the Balakot strike, the former IAF chief said going after a "non-military target" was "a very wise decision". "The operational capability and our intelligence capability cannot be compromised to just try and win the perception battle in the media. But both the Pakistani establishment and (terror group) Jaish-e-Mohammed got the message," he said. The former IAF chief further said that there were no major terror attacks between February and June 2019 till the conclusion of the Lok Sabha polls because the Army, Navy and Air Force were "forward-deployed to give a punitive response at very short notice." He added that the attack on a terror camp in Pakistan was meant to give a message to that country's establishment, and "not to the Pakistani public, or an effort to win a propaganda battle with the Pakistani and international media". "Had it been so, we would have used different weapons and different modes of attacks for which presently Pakistan has no counter," he added. Lt General PM Hariz (retd) and Vice Admiral Vijay Shankar (retd) also delivered speeches on the occasion.

IAF has to reorient, retrain to changed war paradigm: Dhanoa

The BJP government cleared the work which had been stalled for more than three decades leading to the inclusion of Rafale aircraft in the fleet of Indian Air Force (IAF), said Prime Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/opinions/how-narendra-modis-prime-ministership-will-evolve-over-the-next-five-years-232915">Narendra Modi</a> on Tuesday.

"For over 30 years not a single next-generation fighter plane was added to IAF's fleet. Our aging aircrafts used to meet with accidents, fighter pilots kept getting martyred but the people responsible for getting the new planes had no concern," Modi said at the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/10-jamia-students-asked-to-leave-ncc-camp-for-keeping-beard-27736">National Cadet Corps</a> (NCC) rally at Cariappa grounds in New Delhi.

"Should we have let that continue? Should we have allowed the Air Force to get weakened? No. We cleared the work which was stalled for more than 30 years and today I am happy that India has got the next-generation fighter plane Rafale and it will fly in the country's skies soon," Modi added.

Modi further said that the Centre had not only approved the purchase of adequate bulletproof jackets for its own soldiers, but it is now moving ahead to export such jackets to the other countries too.

Asserting that his government had also played a big role in increasing synergy by the creation of the post of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Modi said, "For many years, discussions were being held to appoint a Chief of Defence Staff to increase synergy and coordination between the three wings of the Armed Forces. But nobody took a decision on it."

"The creation of the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/government-to-announce-indias-first-chief-of-defence-staff-today-269990">Department of Military Affairs</a>, CDS and the appointments to them was also done by us. We worked with the thought that it was time to deliver," he added.

Earlier, the Prime Minister had presented awards to the best cadets. Defence Minister <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-general-elections-2019/rajnath-singh-arrives-in-moscow-for-three-day-visit-to-boost-defence-ties-with-russia-260035">Rajnath Singh</a>, Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, and the three wing-chiefs were also present at the rally.

Cadets from Bhutan, Russia, and Nepal were also present at the event held today.

The BJP government cleared the work which had been stalled for more than three decades leading to the inclusion of Rafale aircraft in the fleet of Indian Air Force (IAF), said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday.

The BJP government cleared the work which had been stalled for more than three decades leading to the inclusion of Rafale aircraft in the fleet of Indian Air Force (IAF), said Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday. "For over 30 years not a single next-generation fighter plane was added to IAF's fleet. Our aging aircrafts used to meet with accidents, fighter pilots kept getting martyred but the people responsible for getting the new planes had no concern," Modi said at the National Cadet Corps (NCC) rally at Cariappa grounds in New Delhi. "Should we have let that continue? Should we have allowed the Air Force to get weakened? No. We cleared the work which was stalled for more than 30 years and today I am happy that India has got the next-generation fighter plane Rafale and it will fly in the country's skies soon," Modi added. Modi further said that the Centre had not only approved the purchase of adequate bulletproof jackets for its own soldiers, but it is now moving ahead to export such jackets to the other countries too. Asserting that his government had also played a big role in increasing synergy by the creation of the post of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Modi said, "For many years, discussions were being held to appoint a Chief of Defence Staff to increase synergy and coordination between the three wings of the Armed Forces. But nobody took a decision on it." "The creation of the Department of Military Affairs, CDS and the appointments to them was also done by us. We worked with the thought that it was time to deliver," he added. Earlier, the Prime Minister had presented awards to the best cadets. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, and the three wing-chiefs were also present at the rally. Cadets from Bhutan, Russia, and Nepal were also present at the event held today.

Our government cleared the stalled purchase of Rafale aircraft for IAF: Narendra Modi

Today, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has inducted its first Sukhoi-30MKI fighter aircraft squadron at the Thanjavur airbase in Tamil Nadu. This will help India to counter China's dominance in the I.O.R. Besides, this will have ramifications for Sri Lanka too.

Gravitas: Sukhoi-30MKI Fighters, Sri Lanka & India's I.O.R. Strategy

The Indian Air Force(IAF) inducted <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/iaf-inducts-sukhoi-mki30-tipped-with-brahmos-missile-at-thanjavur-in-south-india-275469">Sukhoi-30 MKI aircraft at the Thanjavur Air Force </a>base in Tamil Nadu, thus making it the first Sukhoi squadron in southern India.&nbsp;

The Sukhoi aircraft are termed as air-superiority fighters and are equipped to carry the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile that has been jointly developed by India and Russia. The squadron is expected to play a crucial in guarding the all-important Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and the southern peninsula.

The Sukhoi aircraft that has been inducted into the resurrected '222 Tiger Sharks' squadron which was accorded a ceremonial water cannon salute as it rolled down the tarmac.

The ceremony was conducted in the presence of Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Bipin Rawat and Air Force Chief RKS Bhaduria and several other senior officials from the Defence establishment.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/eye-on-china-how-iafs-sukhoi-fighters-with-brahmos-cruise-missiles-can-shift-balance-in-indian-ocean-region-275502">In pics | Eye on China: How IAF's Sukhoi fighters with BrahMos cruise missiles can shift balance in Indian Ocean Region</a>

Speaking at the event, Chief of Defence Staff General&nbsp;Bipin Rawat said that the resurrection of the Tiger Sharks squadron highlights the integration and jointness that are to be the future of the Indian Armed Forces.

"Being equipped with the BrahMos this aircraft will become a game-changer for our armed forces and extensively enhances the security of our maritime domain. The squadron can perform tasks in support of land forces, in protecting vulnerable areas and any other assigned task besides operating in close conjunction with our Navy and Army. Happy targeting in the years ahead and I'm confident that you will earn laurels", General&nbsp;Rawat elaborated.

Lauding the joint efforts of various defence manufacturers and partners Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadurai said, "after the surface-to-surface BrahMos, we discussed an air-launched version, but it was challenging and thought of as impossible, as a missile of the size and weight 2.5 tons had not been integrated into an Air Force platform. But our dedicated teams of BAPL, DRDO and HAL have made it possible indigenously."&nbsp;

Urging the new squadron to serve the nation he said that the long wait in resurrecting the Tiger Sharks was worth it as they have the latest aircraft and latest weapon. He stated that the squadron has to operationalize fast and take up all roles expected - air defence of the southern peninsula and critical national assets in this area of responsibility, besides the maritime role support for Navy and offensive or defensive role for the southern peninsula.

"True to your name you must be lethal at first bite. Bite every time and every mission you get airborne and ensure you are lethal", he added.&nbsp;

Sharing his perspective with WION, on the Thanjavur base and the technical challenges that India overcame to integrate the Brahmos and Sukhoi, Dr A. Sivathanu Pillai, Founder and CEO of BrahMos Aerospace said, "The BrahMos missile has two capabilities - air to ship, air to land. When the need arises to use it against ships, the peninsula will be the main region and when it comes to hitting ground targets, it can be the border areas and land-based adversaries. The squadron in Thanjavur is a part of the strategy to spread the delivery platform and weapons in different places"

"As it is, the Sukhoi is not meant for carrying BrahMos, as its total weapons load has to be around 5.5tons, of which the Brahmos alone is 2.5 tons. We made several modifications including stiffening of the structure to ensure that the missile can be carried in the underbelly of the aircraft, as opposed to the wings, for smaller missiles and bombs", Dr Pillai added.&nbsp;

WION spoke to Retd. Air Marshal Padamjit Singh Ahluwalia to understand the important role that the "Tiger Sharks"&nbsp;are meant to play.&nbsp;

He said, "The Su-30 MKI, has a range of 3000kms when augmented with mid-air-refuelling. A 3000km arc would mean that we can cover right up to Madagascar and perform Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (IRS) roles. Our Sukhois are equipped with good radars and avionics that can detect targets on land and sea. Using the BrahMos it can engage aircraft carriers and other warships with its standoff range of 290kms. With its onboard Electronic Countermeasures(ECM) and self protections devices, the Sukhois at Thanjavur add immense combat potential to the Indian Forces and definitely gives us the edge in Indian Ocean Region".

The Indian Air Force(IAF) inducted Sukhoi-30 MKI aircraft at the Thanjavur Air Force base in Tamil Nadu, thus making it the first Sukhoi squadron in southern India.

The Indian Air Force(IAF) inducted Sukhoi-30 MKI aircraft at the Thanjavur Air Force base in Tamil Nadu, thus making it the first Sukhoi squadron in southern India. The Sukhoi aircraft are termed as air-superiority fighters and are equipped to carry the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile that has been jointly developed by India and Russia. The squadron is expected to play a crucial in guarding the all-important Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and the southern peninsula. The Sukhoi aircraft that has been inducted into the resurrected '222 Tiger Sharks' squadron which was accorded a ceremonial water cannon salute as it rolled down the tarmac. The ceremony was conducted in the presence of Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Bipin Rawat and Air Force Chief RKS Bhaduria and several other senior officials from the Defence establishment. In pics | Eye on China: How IAF's Sukhoi fighters with BrahMos cruise missiles can shift balance in Indian Ocean Region Speaking at the event, Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat said that the resurrection of the Tiger Sharks squadron highlights the integration and jointness that are to be the future of the Indian Armed Forces. "Being equipped with the BrahMos this aircraft will become a game-changer for our armed forces and extensively enhances the security of our maritime domain. The squadron can perform tasks in support of land forces, in protecting vulnerable areas and any other assigned task besides operating in close conjunction with our Navy and Army. Happy targeting in the years ahead and I'm confident that you will earn laurels", General Rawat elaborated. Lauding the joint efforts of various defence manufacturers and partners Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadurai said, "after the surface-to-surface BrahMos, we discussed an air-launched version, but it was challenging and thought of as impossible, as a missile of the size and weight 2.5 tons had not been integrated into an Air Force platform. But our dedicated teams of BAPL, DRDO and HAL have made it possible indigenously." Urging the new squadron to serve the nation he said that the long wait in resurrecting the Tiger Sharks was worth it as they have the latest aircraft and latest weapon. He stated that the squadron has to operationalize fast and take up all roles expected - air defence of the southern peninsula and critical national assets in this area of responsibility, besides the maritime role support for Navy and offensive or defensive role for the southern peninsula. "True to your name you must be lethal at first bite. Bite every time and every mission you get airborne and ensure you are lethal", he added. Sharing his perspective with WION, on the Thanjavur base and the technical challenges that India overcame to integrate the Brahmos and Sukhoi, Dr A. Sivathanu Pillai, Founder and CEO of BrahMos Aerospace said, "The BrahMos missile has two capabilities - air to ship, air to land. When the need arises to use it against ships, the peninsula will be the main region and when it comes to hitting ground targets, it can be the border areas and land-based adversaries. The squadron in Thanjavur is a part of the strategy to spread the delivery platform and weapons in different places" "As it is, the Sukhoi is not meant for carrying BrahMos, as its total weapons load has to be around 5.5tons, of which the Brahmos alone is 2.5 tons. We made several modifications including stiffening of the structure to ensure that the missile can be carried in the underbelly of the aircraft, as opposed to the wings, for smaller missiles and bombs", Dr Pillai added. WION spoke to Retd. Air Marshal Padamjit Singh Ahluwalia to understand the important role that the "Tiger Sharks" are meant to play. He said, "The Su-30 MKI, has a range of 3000kms when augmented with mid-air-refuelling. A 3000km arc would mean that we can cover right up to Madagascar and perform Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (IRS) roles. Our Sukhois are equipped with good radars and avionics that can detect targets on land and sea. Using the BrahMos it can engage aircraft carriers and other warships with its standoff range of 290kms. With its onboard Electronic Countermeasures(ECM) and self protections devices, the Sukhois at Thanjavur add immense combat potential to the Indian Forces and definitely gives us the edge in Indian Ocean Region".

Brahmos-armed Sukhois in strategic location Thanjavur; CDS Bipin Rawat says 'happy targeting'

Eye on China: How IAF's Sukhoi fighters with BrahMos cruise missiles can shift balance in Indian Ocean Region

Indian Air Force (IAF) bids farewell to its swing-wing MiG-27 fighter jets that played a key stellar role in the 1999 Kargil War. The MiG-27 fighter jets have the backbone of the IAF's ground-attack fleet for several years, but the fighter plane flew for the last time on December 27. #Kargil #MiG27 #IAF #WION

IAF bids farewell to MIG-27, took it's last flight yesterday

India's Former Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa has said that the Indian Air Force (IAF) planned to strike terror camps of Pakistan twice before the 2019 Balakot airstrike. #WION #IAF #BSDhanoa

Ex-IAF Chief: IAF planned airstrike to hit terror camps in Pak in 2008

The Indian Air Force(IAF) is set to retire the MiG-27 fighter jet fleet today at the Air Force Station Jodhpur.

The fighter jet was built by the former Soviet Union and&nbsp;played a crucial role during the Kargil conflict in 1999.

The MiG-27 has been a crucial part of IAF's ground attack fleet for the past four decades. The fleet earned its glory during the Kargil conflict when it delivered rockets and bombs with accuracy on enemy positions.

The fleet also took part in "Operation Parakram" during the India-Pakistan standoff which occurred after the terror attack on the Indian Parliament in 2001.

The squadron is now slated to be number plated on March 31, 2020, with December 27 being its last flying day.

The exact fate of the MiG-27 fleet is unknown, but fighters planes after decommissioning are mostly used as souvenirs.

The Indian Air Force(IAF) is set to retire the MiG-27 fighter jet fleet today at the Air Force Station Jodhpur. The fighter jet was built by the former Soviet Union and played a crucial role during the Kargil conflict in 1999.

The Indian Air Force(IAF) is set to retire the MiG-27 fighter jet fleet today at the Air Force Station Jodhpur. The fighter jet was built by the former Soviet Union and played a crucial role during the Kargil conflict in 1999. The MiG-27 has been a crucial part of IAF's ground attack fleet for the past four decades. The fleet earned its glory during the Kargil conflict when it delivered rockets and bombs with accuracy on enemy positions. The fleet also took part in "Operation Parakram" during the India-Pakistan standoff which occurred after the terror attack on the Indian Parliament in 2001. The squadron is now slated to be number plated on March 31, 2020, with December 27 being its last flying day. The exact fate of the MiG-27 fleet is unknown, but fighters planes after decommissioning are mostly used as souvenirs.

Indian Air Force to retire MiG-27 fighter plane today

India today retired the<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/indian-air-force-to-retire-mig-27-fighter-plane-today-270493"> iconic MiG-27 fighter </a>jet fleet stationed at the Jodhpur airbase decades after it was introduced into the Air Force.

The fighter jet was used by former Soviet-built aircraft in the last stages of the Afghanistan war. It was inducted into the Indian Air Force in 1985.

The plane proved its mettle during the Kargil war in 1999 firing precision-guided missiles at enemy positions dug deep into the trenches. It had also provided India an edge during "Operation Parakram" in the India-Pakistan standoff in 2001 after the Parliament attack.

The plane meant to fly in low altitude could&nbsp;hit ground-based targets. The MiG-27 was therefore used in a strategic, stealthy role to conduct ground assaults on enemy positions.

The tactical aircraft was exported by the former Soviet Union initially to Warsaw Pact countries and then in a big way to India in the 1980s. A forerunner of the MiG-23, it turned out to be a dedicated ground attack aircraft which carried out attacks against entrenched enemy strongholds&nbsp;

India was given license to produce the MiG-27 under the "Bhadhur" designation. NATO had codenamed the jet "flogger". It could operate within a range of 780 km at a top speed of 1,885 kmph. The meximum height at which it could operate was 46,000 feet.

The MiG-27 was upgraded by the Indian Air Force to ensure its strike capability, however, in recent years the fleet experienced several crashes.

Now, the MiG-27 squadron will be plated on March 31, 2020, with December 27 being its last flying day.

India today retired the iconic MiG-27 fighter jet fleet stationed at the Jodhpur airbase decades after it was introduced into the Air Force. The fighter jet was used by former Soviet-built aircraft in the last stages of the Afghanistan war.

India today retired the iconic MiG-27 fighter jet fleet stationed at the Jodhpur airbase decades after it was introduced into the Air Force. The fighter jet was used by former Soviet-built aircraft in the last stages of the Afghanistan war. It was inducted into the Indian Air Force in 1985. The plane proved its mettle during the Kargil war in 1999 firing precision-guided missiles at enemy positions dug deep into the trenches. It had also provided India an edge during "Operation Parakram" in the India-Pakistan standoff in 2001 after the Parliament attack. The plane meant to fly in low altitude could hit ground-based targets. The MiG-27 was therefore used in a strategic, stealthy role to conduct ground assaults on enemy positions. The tactical aircraft was exported by the former Soviet Union initially to Warsaw Pact countries and then in a big way to India in the 1980s. A forerunner of the MiG-23, it turned out to be a dedicated ground attack aircraft which carried out attacks against entrenched enemy strongholds India was given license to produce the MiG-27 under the "Bhadhur" designation. NATO had codenamed the jet "flogger". It could operate within a range of 780 km at a top speed of 1,885 kmph. The meximum height at which it could operate was 46,000 feet. The MiG-27 was upgraded by the Indian Air Force to ensure its strike capability, however, in recent years the fleet experienced several crashes. Now, the MiG-27 squadron will be plated on March 31, 2020, with December 27 being its last flying day.

Indian Air Force retires MiG-27 'Bahadhur'

The Indian Air Force on Thursday bid adieu to the legendary aircraft - the Mig 27 - which helped India win the 1999 Kargil war against the Pakistanis.

The Indian Air Force inducted the Soviet-made&nbsp;machine designed by Mikoyan Gurevich (Mig) into service in 1985. The NATO code-name given to the aircraft was 'Flogger'. The Mig 27 proved its capability and along with the British SEPECAT Jaguar went on to form India's fleet of ground attack aircraft.

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This formidable ground attack fighter aircraft has served the Nation for over three decades. Inducted in 1985, MiG-27 has been the mainstay of IAF's ground attack capability. It has participated in all major <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/IAF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#IAF</a> operations and has played a stellar role in the 1999 Kargil War. <a href="https://t.co/sHke9FCEKI">pic.twitter.com/sHke9FCEKI</a>
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) <a href="https://twitter.com/IAF_MCC/status/1210199364175613958?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2019</a></blockquote>
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While many may disregard its role, the Mig 27 is not like the Mig 21 and nor is it like the Mig 29. The Mig 21 is an interceptor aircraft, which as the name suggests, intercepts foreign aircraft violating Indian air space, a role which revolves around defence. The Mig 29 is a multi-role fighter aircraft which, as the name suggests again, can have multiple roles in given operations. These roles may include of air-to-air 'dog fights' as well as air-to-surface operations and aerial reconnaissance, among others.

The Mig 27 unlike the Mig 21 and Mig 29 plays a more ground-based role. Designed for surface-to-air operations, the Mig 27 is a dedicated ground attack aircraft which carries out sorties against ground-based targets. Such aircraft are usually slower in speed than other categories, considering the weight of the additional armour and heavy-duty ammunition it employs. Such aircraft usually operate along with the cover of air-superiority aircraft such as the Mig 29 and Su 30 combat aircraft.

In it's time with the Indian Air Force, the fleet of Mig 27's proved its capability in utilising bombs, rockets, precision munitions (guided by laser or TV) as well as air-to-air missiles. It's computer and equipment enabled it to have an excellent forward-vision as well as a&nbsp;360 degree eye on the sky, proving it's mettle and establishing its true worth to ground attack operations.

The Bahadur was designed as a single-pilot aircraft, which could take-off with a maximum of roughly 20,000 kg, including arms &amp; munitions and body weight. It could operate within a range of 780 km at a top speed of 1,885 kmph. The meximum height at which it could operate was 46,000 ft. As far as the enemy was concerned, this was a Lamborghini in the air, equipped with the armour of a tank, firing rockets and dropping bombs on them.

The comparatively stronger undercarriage undercarriage and heavy-duty landing gear enable the 'Bahadur' to operate from uneven or even unpaved airbases, which in times of war and emergencies plays a very important factor. The aircraft can specifically have a huge impact on enemy ground units in open areas, like the Thar desert.

The aircraft's&nbsp;capability of launching guided as well as unguided (or free-fall)&nbsp;munitions made it the centre-piece of the aerial component of Operation Safed Sagar. The ultimate aim of the operation was to flush out Pakistani troops from the positions they occupied in the Kargil sector.

The Mig 27 was also inducted by the Sri Lankan Air Force in 2000, playing a huge role in fighting the civil war against&nbsp;the LTTE.

The Indian Air Force on Thursday bid adieu to the legendary aircraft - the Mig 27 - which helped India win the 1999 Kargil war against the Pakistanis. The Indian Air Force inducted the Soviet-made machine designed by Mikoyan Gurevich (Mig) into service in 1985.

The Indian Air Force on Thursday bid adieu to the legendary aircraft - the Mig 27 - which helped India win the 1999 Kargil war against the Pakistanis. The Indian Air Force inducted the Soviet-made machine designed by Mikoyan Gurevich (Mig) into service in 1985. The NATO code-name given to the aircraft was 'Flogger'. The Mig 27 proved its capability and along with the British SEPECAT Jaguar went on to form India's fleet of ground attack aircraft. This formidable ground attack fighter aircraft has served the Nation for over three decades. Inducted in 1985, MiG-27 has been the mainstay of IAF's ground attack capability. It has participated in all major #IAF operations and has played a stellar role in the 1999 Kargil War. pic.twitter.com/sHke9FCEKI — Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) December 26, 2019 × While many may disregard its role, the Mig 27 is not like the Mig 21 and nor is it like the Mig 29. The Mig 21 is an interceptor aircraft, which as the name suggests, intercepts foreign aircraft violating Indian air space, a role which revolves around defence. The Mig 29 is a multi-role fighter aircraft which, as the name suggests again, can have multiple roles in given operations. These roles may include of air-to-air 'dog fights' as well as air-to-surface operations and aerial reconnaissance, among others. The Mig 27 unlike the Mig 21 and Mig 29 plays a more ground-based role. Designed for surface-to-air operations, the Mig 27 is a dedicated ground attack aircraft which carries out sorties against ground-based targets. Such aircraft are usually slower in speed than other categories, considering the weight of the additional armour and heavy-duty ammunition it employs. Such aircraft usually operate along with the cover of air-superiority aircraft such as the Mig 29 and Su 30 combat aircraft. In it's time with the Indian Air Force, the fleet of Mig 27's proved its capability in utilising bombs, rockets, precision munitions (guided by laser or TV) as well as air-to-air missiles. It's computer and equipment enabled it to have an excellent forward-vision as well as a 360 degree eye on the sky, proving it's mettle and establishing its true worth to ground attack operations. The Bahadur was designed as a single-pilot aircraft, which could take-off with a maximum of roughly 20,000 kg, including arms & munitions and body weight. It could operate within a range of 780 km at a top speed of 1,885 kmph. The meximum height at which it could operate was 46,000 ft. As far as the enemy was concerned, this was a Lamborghini in the air, equipped with the armour of a tank, firing rockets and dropping bombs on them. The comparatively stronger undercarriage undercarriage and heavy-duty landing gear enable the 'Bahadur' to operate from uneven or even unpaved airbases, which in times of war and emergencies plays a very important factor. The aircraft can specifically have a huge impact on enemy ground units in open areas, like the Thar desert. The aircraft's capability of launching guided as well as unguided (or free-fall) munitions made it the centre-piece of the aerial component of Operation Safed Sagar. The ultimate aim of the operation was to flush out Pakistani troops from the positions they occupied in the Kargil sector. The Mig 27 was also inducted by the Sri Lankan Air Force in 2000, playing a huge role in fighting the civil war against the LTTE.

End of the line for India's 'Bahadur' Mig-27

Tough negotiations by the Defence Ministry's finance wing and the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/indian-air-force-celebrates-the-87th-anniversary-of-air-force-day-254384">Indian Air Force</a> (IAF) with the state-owned<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/hindustan-aeronautics-limited-employees-launch-indefinite-countrywide-strike-over-wage-revision-255852"> Hindustan Aeronautics Limited</a> (HAL) have helped in getting the price of the 83 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) deal by over Rs 10,000 crore.

The <a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/defence-acquisition-council-nod-for-65-bn-defence-buys-161515">Defence Acquisition Council</a> (DAC), the Defence Ministry's highest decision-making body on procurement, had, in November 2016, approved purchase of 83 Tejas Mark-1A by the IAF at a cost of Rs 50,025 crore.

"The draft contract of the deal has been readied by the HAL and the cost of the deal has now come down to around Rs 40,000 crore. This is Rs 10,000 crore less than the Acceptance of Necessity given by the Defence Ministry in 2016," defence sources told ANI here.

The Defence Ministry is now hoping to seal the biggest contract ever for the indigenous industry by the defence forces during the Defexpo-2019, scheduled to be held in February in Lucknow&nbsp;the constituency of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

December 2017, the IAF had issued a single-vendor tender to the HAL for procuring 83 LCA, but the negotiations and other related issues have been going on since then mainly due to issues over the price.

The Defence Ministry Finance wing had found the price of the systems offered in the LCA Mark 1A to be on the higher side and the then Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had formed a committee to look into the matter.

Since then, there have been several rounds of meetings between the two sides but now the contract is in the final stages of being inked between the two sides. 
The aircraft will have improved serviceability, faster weapon-loading time, enhanced survivability, a better electronic warfare suite and Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar that will significantly enhance its capability.

The Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC) had provided the Final Operational Clearance to the Tejas LCA earlier this year during Aero India in Bengaluru approving its capabilities including beyond visual range air-to-air and air-to-ground attack capabilities as well as longer endurance through mid-air refueling. 
In a previous order, the IAF had signed a deal with the HAL for 40 Tejas LCAs. So far, around 18 LCAs have been delivered to the IAF from the previous order and one squadron has been formed in Sulur. The 45 squadrons have taken part in multiple exercises and demonstrations to showcase its capabilities to the world.

&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/defence-minister-rajnath-singh-flies-in-light-combat-aircraft-tejas-250512/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

&nbsp;

&nbsp;

Tough negotiations by the Defence Ministry's finance wing and the Indian Air Force (IAF) with the state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) have helped in getting the price of the 83 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) deal by over Rs 10,000 crore.

Tough negotiations by the Defence Ministry's finance wing and the Indian Air Force (IAF) with the state-owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) have helped in getting the price of the 83 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) deal by over Rs 10,000 crore. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), the Defence Ministry's highest decision-making body on procurement, had, in November 2016, approved purchase of 83 Tejas Mark-1A by the IAF at a cost of Rs 50,025 crore. "The draft contract of the deal has been readied by the HAL and the cost of the deal has now come down to around Rs 40,000 crore. This is Rs 10,000 crore less than the Acceptance of Necessity given by the Defence Ministry in 2016," defence sources told ANI here. The Defence Ministry is now hoping to seal the biggest contract ever for the indigenous industry by the defence forces during the Defexpo-2019, scheduled to be held in February in Lucknow the constituency of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. December 2017, the IAF had issued a single-vendor tender to the HAL for procuring 83 LCA, but the negotiations and other related issues have been going on since then mainly due to issues over the price. The Defence Ministry Finance wing had found the price of the systems offered in the LCA Mark 1A to be on the higher side and the then Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman had formed a committee to look into the matter. Since then, there have been several rounds of meetings between the two sides but now the contract is in the final stages of being inked between the two sides. The aircraft will have improved serviceability, faster weapon-loading time, enhanced survivability, a better electronic warfare suite and Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar that will significantly enhance its capability. The Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC) had provided the Final Operational Clearance to the Tejas LCA earlier this year during Aero India in Bengaluru approving its capabilities including beyond visual range air-to-air and air-to-ground attack capabilities as well as longer endurance through mid-air refueling. In a previous order, the IAF had signed a deal with the HAL for 40 Tejas LCAs. So far, around 18 LCAs have been delivered to the IAF from the previous order and one squadron has been formed in Sulur. The 45 squadrons have taken part in multiple exercises and demonstrations to showcase its capabilities to the world.

Defence Ministry, IAF bring down 83 LCA deal cost by over Rs 10,000 crore

The United States rebuked Pakistan Air Force chief in August for misusing F-16 fighter jets by undermining their shared security platforms and infrastructures, a media report in Washington has said. This comes months after the Indian Air Force shot down an F-16 jet of the Pakistan Air Force during aerial combat over Jammu and Kashmir.

US warns Pakistan over F-16 misuse

With Delhi-NCR gasping for breath, BJP MLA from Ghaziabad, Nand Kishore Gurjar has penned down a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting him to direct Indian Air Force to sprinkle water in his constituency with the help of helicopters to settle down dust particles.

In the letter, he wrote, "This is to bring to your notice that in Delhi and its adjoining NCR region Ghaziabad, the air quality index is hovering between 1700-1900. This has created an emergency-like situation in these areas. In these conditions, at present, lakhs of people residing in Delhi-NCR-Loni from the past one week are breathing in the gas chamber and are slowly breathing poisonous air. Due to polluted air, people have fallen prey to heart disease, Asthma, breathlessness, lung infection and eye irritation. The majority of them who are affected are aged people and children."

"In such condition, lakhs of people have faith in our Prime Minister that in this emergency like situation, he will ask Indian Air force to use helicopters and global master aircraft to sprinkle water all over Delhi and NCR. We also believed that you will also seek the help of talented scientists in artificial cloud formation tp reduce air pollution. 16 lakh people of my Loni and crores of people from NCR will be grateful to you," the letter read.

On October 17, Ghaziabad`s Loni (rural area) was placed in the top of the chart of the 108 most polluted cities in the country as per the Central Pollution Control Board`s AQI figures, a day after stringent measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) was implemented in the city to tackle the menace of air pollution.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

With Delhi-NCR gasping for breath, BJP MLA from Ghaziabad, Nand Kishore Gurjar has penned down a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting him to direct Indian Air Force to sprinkle water in his constituency with the help of helicopters to settle down dust particles.

With Delhi-NCR gasping for breath, BJP MLA from Ghaziabad, Nand Kishore Gurjar has penned down a letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi requesting him to direct Indian Air Force to sprinkle water in his constituency with the help of helicopters to settle down dust particles. In the letter, he wrote, "This is to bring to your notice that in Delhi and its adjoining NCR region Ghaziabad, the air quality index is hovering between 1700-1900. This has created an emergency-like situation in these areas. In these conditions, at present, lakhs of people residing in Delhi-NCR-Loni from the past one week are breathing in the gas chamber and are slowly breathing poisonous air. Due to polluted air, people have fallen prey to heart disease, Asthma, breathlessness, lung infection and eye irritation. The majority of them who are affected are aged people and children." "In such condition, lakhs of people have faith in our Prime Minister that in this emergency like situation, he will ask Indian Air force to use helicopters and global master aircraft to sprinkle water all over Delhi and NCR. We also believed that you will also seek the help of talented scientists in artificial cloud formation tp reduce air pollution. 16 lakh people of my Loni and crores of people from NCR will be grateful to you," the letter read. On October 17, Ghaziabad`s Loni (rural area) was placed in the top of the chart of the 108 most polluted cities in the country as per the Central Pollution Control Board`s AQI figures, a day after stringent measures under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) was implemented in the city to tackle the menace of air pollution.

BJP MLA urges PM Narendra Modi to direct IAF to sprinkle water in Delhi NCR 

The Indian Air Force has deployed several teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in Jamnagar, in wake of the cyclonic storm 'MAHA' alert on Tuesday. 
 
Around 140 NDRF personnel have been deployed and nearly 8 tonnes of relief material has been put in place. 
 
About 100 more personnel are being sent to Ahmedabad to further spread the rescue and relief operations in the state. 
 
A total of 35 teams were deployed in Gujarat and the Diu district of Union territory Daman and Diu, as per NDRF's Twitter handle.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
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<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/CycloneMaha?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#CycloneMaha</a> 
06 teams each of <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NDRF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NDRF</a> airlifted from Ghaziabad &amp; Bhatinda. 
Total 35 Teams of NDRF Deployed in Gujarat and Diu.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BePreparedBeSafe?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BePreparedBeSafe</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/NDRF4U?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#NDRF4U</a><a href="https://twitter.com/satyaprad1?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@satyaprad1</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/PIBHomeAffairs?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@PIBHomeAffairs</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ndmaindia?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ndmaindia</a> <a href="https://t.co/SsEIYcqm9x">pic.twitter.com/SsEIYcqm9x</a>
— NDRF 🇮🇳 (@NDRFHQ) <a href="https://twitter.com/NDRFHQ/status/1191666911068581888?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 5, 2019</a></blockquote>
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On Monday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted that the Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm 'MAHA' is likely to intensify further till the morning of November 5 and then weaken gradually. 
 
Fishermen were repeatedly advised not to venture into central and northeast Arabian Sea and the Andaman Sea.

The Indian Air Force has deployed several teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in Jamnagar, in wake of the cyclonic storm 'MAHA' alert on Tuesday.

The Indian Air Force has deployed several teams of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in Jamnagar, in wake of the cyclonic storm 'MAHA' alert on Tuesday. Around 140 NDRF personnel have been deployed and nearly 8 tonnes of relief material has been put in place. About 100 more personnel are being sent to Ahmedabad to further spread the rescue and relief operations in the state. A total of 35 teams were deployed in Gujarat and the Diu district of Union territory Daman and Diu, as per NDRF's Twitter handle. #CycloneMaha 06 teams each of #NDRF airlifted from Ghaziabad & Bhatinda. Total 35 Teams of NDRF Deployed in Gujarat and Diu.#BePreparedBeSafe#NDRF4U@satyaprad1 @PIBHomeAffairs @ndmaindia pic.twitter.com/SsEIYcqm9x — NDRF 🇮🇳 (@NDRFHQ) November 5, 2019 × On Monday, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) had predicted that the Extremely Severe Cyclonic Storm 'MAHA' is likely to intensify further till the morning of November 5 and then weaken gradually. Fishermen were repeatedly advised not to venture into central and northeast Arabian Sea and the Andaman Sea.

Indian Air Force deploys around 140 personnel in Gujarat as cyclone Maha approaches

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