IAF celebrates 60 years of Chetak’s service to the nation
The Hindu
Defence Minister, top-ranking officials and scientists join celebrations at CISF-NISA Hakimpet
Chetak helicopters are not just machines, they touch people’s hearts and by being a versatile carrier in serving the country during times of war and peace, they give life, said Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on the 60-year-old workhorse.
“We celebrate diamond jubilees of institutions and organisations, but here the Indian Air Force is celebrating diamond jubilee of a helicopter,” he said, likening the event to Ayudha Puja or worship of weapons, and while connecting it to another Chetak, the horse of Maharana Pratap in the Battle of Haldighati in 16th century.
Mr. Singh joined top-ranking officials of the IAF, its veterans and scientists from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, the manufacturer of Chetak helicopters since 1962, here at CISF-NISA at Hakimpet on Saturday.
He said the diamond jubilee conclave is a fitting tribute to Chetak for its invaluable contribution in all the wars that India fought.
Chetaks trained pilots of the tri-services and the Coast Guard, provided air support and logistics to troops, extended humanitarian assistance and evacuated victims of natural calamities. In the 1971 war, Bangladesh pilots too were trained with Chetaks, he recalled, exemplifying it as a symbol of jointmanship and integration. Chetaks received four ‘Veer Chakra’ awards in the war, and through adaptation, modification and upgradation, they remain a frontline platform even after 60 years, he said.
Mr. Singh, while observing that India showed its strength in the five-tonne category helicopters in design, development and operation, such as the Light Combat Helicopter and Light Utility Helicopter, underlined the need for progress in the 10-tonne Indian Multirole Helicopter.
“As per an estimate, there is a demand for more than 1,000 civilian helicopters and an equal number of helicopters in the military sector,” he said, adding that India’s rotary wing aircraft domain is full of potential.
Explore the shifting alliances and political dynamics shaping Mumbai's BMC elections, a pivotal moment for Maharashtra's civic future.
Aryna Sabalenka leads the 2026 Australian Open favorites, facing tough competition from Iga Swiatek and strong U.S. contenders.
Explore how Trump's actions in Venezuela represent a significant violation of international law and the balance of power.
Severe cold grips North India, with temperatures plunging near freezing in Rajasthan and Haryana, affecting daily life and agriculture.
Goschen Library in Chennai reopens after restoration, offering modern facilities while preserving its historic charm for eager readers.
Explore India's data centre challenges and the urgent need for sustainable practices amid rising environmental concerns and potential 'data dumping'.
Although students from Tamil Nadu remain the leading recipients of educational loans across India, there has been a significant decline in the number of active loans they hold. The number of active education loan accounts decreased from 27.4 lakh accounts to about 20.1 lakh in the period. The fall can be mostly attributed to the fall in Tamil Nadu’s numbers.
If you live along OMR, you might see 2025 as the year residents quietly set up the systems that are going to make 2026 and beyond very different on this side of the city.
Paris FC shocks PSG, eliminating the Cup holders with a historic win despite being heavily outplayed in the match.
Iranians are using Elon Musk's Starlink to bypass internet blackouts amid ongoing protests and government crackdowns.
The Hindu Morning Digest gives a select list of stories to start the day. Read the top news today on January 13, 2026
China’s EAST fusion reactor surpasses density limits, paving the way for advancements in sustainable fusion energy production.
Chennai Metrowater aims for continuous water supply in Adyar zone, boosting daily supply to 50 million litres in two years.