Prayagraj, January 26, 2026 – In a poignant ceremony marking India’s 77th Republic Day, the Indian Air Force (IAF) felicitated three local residents of Prayagraj for their exemplary courage in rescuing two aircrew members following an emergency landing of a Microlite aircraft. The event, held at Air Force Station Bamrauli, underscored the strong synergy between civilians and the armed forces.
The incident that prompted this recognition occurred on January 21, 2026, when a two-seater IAF Microlite trainer aircraft, during a routine sortie from AF Station Bamrauli, encountered a technical malfunction around 12:15 PM. The aircraft force-landed safely in a pond within an uninhabited wetland area near Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh. Both pilots ejected without injury, but the challenging terrain necessitated immediate assistance. Local residents, including Shri Pankaj, Shri Lal Sahab, and Shri Alok Yadav, swiftly intervened, wading through the water to aid the aircrew and facilitate their safe extraction. Videos of the rescue, capturing civilians assisting the pilots amid the marshy conditions, subsequently went viral, highlighting the community’s prompt response.
During the Republic Day felicitation, the Air Officer Commanding (AOC) of AF Station Bamrauli presented certificates and mementos to the three bravehearts in the presence of station personnel. The AOC commended their selfless actions and extended gratitude to the broader Prayagraj community for supporting the efficient recovery of the aircraft. The rescued aircrew members participated in the program, expressing heartfelt thanks to their rescuers. This gathering served as a testament to the enduring bond and mutual respect between the populace and the Indian Armed Forces.
A court of inquiry has been initiated to investigate the technical malfunction that led to the emergency landing. No casualties or property damage were reported, and the IAF has emphasized the safety protocols that ensured the pilots’ well-being.
Such acts of civilian heroism reinforce the collaborative spirit essential to national security and community welfare. The ceremony not only honored individual bravery but also celebrated the collective ethos of service and solidarity on this significant national occasion.
