Politics · India Bureau
MP Urges Ashoka Chakra Award for Pilot Smit Machchhar's Bravery
Shiv Sena Rajya Sabha member Milind Deora has written to the Prime Minister's Office recommending that commercial pilot Smit Machchhar receive India's highest civilian honour for his heroic actions during an aviation emergency.
LSN India ·
Deora's letter to the PMO on Friday highlighted Machchhar's exceptional courage during an incident involving a flydubai aircraft, arguing that his actions merited recognition with the Ashoka Chakra award. The Rajya Sabha MP described the pilot's conduct as exemplary and worthy of the nation's highest recognition for civilian bravery.
The Ashoka Chakra, instituted in 1992, is India's topmost civilian decoration awarded for exceptional acts of courage and self-sacrifice in peacetime. Recipients are selected based on demonstrated bravery and dedication that goes beyond the call of duty.
Deora's recommendation adds to growing recognition of Machchhar's actions in aviation circles and among government officials. The pilot's handling of the emergency situation has been noted as a case study in professional excellence and quick decision-making under extreme pressure.
The PMO typically evaluates such recommendations through relevant government departments before decisions on civilian honours are finalised. The move reflects broader acknowledgment of the critical role pilots play in ensuring passenger safety and national aviation standards.