Nation salutes fallen IAF pilot Purvesh Duragkar, Gadkari meets grieving family

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari on Sunday visited the Nagpur residence of Flight Lieutenant Purvesh Duragkar , the young Indian Air Force officer who lost his life in a tragic fighter jet crash, and paid heartfelt tributes to the fallen pilot.

The minister met Duragkar’s grieving family members, offering condolences and words of support during a deeply emotional moment for the family. Later, Gadkari shared a message on social media, saying he had visited the home of the brave pilot to console the family and express the nation’s gratitude for the sacrifice made in service of the country.

Duragkar, just 28 years old , was among the two pilots killed when an Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter aircraft crashed in Karbi Anglong district of Assam during a training sortie. The aircraft had taken off from the Jorhat Air Force Station but reportedly disappeared from radar shortly after take-off on Thursday, triggering an immediate search operation.

The crash also claimed the life of Squadron Leader Anuj , who was flying alongside Duragkar. Both officers were part of the Indian Air Force , serving on routine operational training when the incident occurred.

On Saturday, Duragkar’s mortal remains were brought to his hometown Nagpur , where he was laid to rest with full military honours . The solemn ceremony saw the presence of family members, friends, defence personnel and dignitaries who gathered to pay their last respects to the young officer whose life ended while serving the nation.

Duragkar is survived by his parents and his sister. For his family and the community that watched him grow into an officer of the Indian Air Force, the loss is deeply personal. For the nation, it is another reminder of the courage and sacrifice carried quietly by those who wear the uniform.

As tributes continue to pour in, Duragkar’s life stands as a symbol of youthful dedication and service, cut short but remembered with honour.