IAF Jet Crash: Pilot Involved in Operation Sindoor Met Family 10 Days Before Tragedy
Two IAF pilots killed as fighter jet on training sortie goes down in Karbi Anglong; family recalls last conversation and recent visit home.
Nagpur, Mar 6: Grief gripped the family of Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar after he was among two Indian Air Force pilots killed in a fighter jet crash in Assam’s Karbi Anglong district, officials said on Friday.
The Su-30 MKI aircraft was on a routine training mission when it disappeared from radar shortly after taking off from the Jorhat airbase on Thursday. The Indian Air Force later confirmed that Squadron Leader Anuj and Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar lost their lives in the accident.
At his residence in Nagpur’s New Subedar Layout, Purvesh’s father Ravindra Duragkar, a retired railway employee, struggled to hold back tears as IAF officials and neighbours gathered to offer condolences. He recalled speaking to his son just a day before the tragic incident.
“We spoke on Wednesday. Later his Group Captain contacted us and informed us about the accident,” Ravindra said.
The 28 year old officer had earlier taken part in Operation Sindoor, a mission launched by India to strike terror bases in Pakistan following the Pahalgam attack last year. According to his father, Purvesh was deeply committed to his duties and took immense pride in serving in the Indian Air Force.
Purvesh was originally stationed at the Tezpur airbase in Assam but had been operating from Jorhat due to ongoing runway work at Tezpur.
Neighbours said Purvesh had visited his hometown about ten days ago for a family gathering. His sister, who lives in the United States and is an IIT graduate, had also travelled home for the occasion.
“He and his sister came home recently for a get together. It was a happy time for the family,” a neighbour said.
Purvesh completed his schooling in Nagpur and remained unmarried. His father said the mortal remains of the young officer are expected to arrive in Nagpur later in the day.
Remembering his son, Ravindra said Purvesh often spoke about the thrill and responsibility of flying fighter aircraft.
“He was extremely proud to wear the uniform. Sometimes he would tell us about flying fighter jets and the speeds they reach. He had great respect for his fellow officers,” he said.
