What Happened to Pilot Rishiraj Singh Devda? Jaguar Jet Crash Tribute
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Synopsis
The nation mourns the loss of Flight Lieutenant Rishiraj Singh Devda, who tragically died in a Jaguar jet crash. His cremation in Khiwandi was marked by emotional tributes and military honours. As investigations unfold, questions regarding the safety of aging aircraft arise, underscoring the sacrifices made by our brave airmen.
Key Takeaways
- Flight Lieutenant Rishiraj Singh Devda was cremated with full military honours.
- Concerns were raised regarding the use of outdated aircraft for newly trained pilots.
- A Court of Inquiry is investigating the crash.
- Public figures and community members paid their respects during the tribute.
- The incident highlights the need for improved safety in military aviation.
Jaipur, July 10 (NationPress) Flight Lieutenant Rishiraj Singh Devda (23), who lost his life in the Jaguar fighter jet crash in Churu, was laid to rest with full military honours on Thursday evening in his hometown of Khiwandi (Pali).
An emotional farewell took place, attended by Air Force personnel, family members, and local residents. The martyr's remains reached the village around 6:10 PM.
Prior to the funeral, the body was displayed in the courtyard of his residence for the final respects. Hundreds from the village and surrounding areas came to offer floral tributes.
A Tiranga Yatra was organized, with Air Force personnel leading the way, as villagers chanted "Bharat Mata Ki Jai" and "Rishiraj Amar Rahe."
During the last rites, Rishiraj's father, Jaswant Singh, was overcome with grief.
The Air Force provided a guard of honour, and officials, including Colonel D.S. Sisodia, presented the national flag and a framed photo of the martyr to his family.
Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat paid his respects at Jodhpur airport and later comforted the bereaved family.
The body was airlifted to Sirohi and then transported by road to Khiwandi. Public figures, including Minister Joraram Kumawat, Bali MLA Pushpendra Singh Ranawat, and former MP Pushp Jain, also paid their respects.
Rishiraj’s uncle, Hitpal Singh, expressed grave concerns about the use of outdated fighter aircraft, questioning the assignment of newly trained pilots to aging jets.
“Our brightest sons are being lost due to obsolete machines,” he remarked.
The Jaguar jet crashed in the Rajaldesar area of Churu at 12:40 PM on July 9, resulting in the fatalities of both pilots - Wing Commander Lokendra Singh Sindhu (44) from Rohtak, Haryana, and Flight Lieutenant Devda.
A Court of Inquiry has been initiated, and a search operation, which includes drone surveillance, is currently underway to recover the aircraft’s black box.
Debris is spread across a wide area, and security forces from multiple police stations have been deployed to the crash site.
Point of View
The loss of Flight Lieutenant Rishiraj Singh Devda is a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by our armed forces. It highlights the necessity for rigorous scrutiny of military aircraft safety, ensuring that our pilots are equipped with the best technology available. The nation stands in solidarity with the grieving family and calls for accountability in aviation standards.
NationPress
27/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the Jaguar jet crash?
The exact cause of the Jaguar jet crash is still under investigation by a Court of Inquiry, which is examining various factors including mechanical failure and pilot training.
Who were the pilots involved in the crash?
The crash involved Flight Lieutenant Rishiraj Singh Devda and Wing Commander Lokendra Singh Sindhu, both of whom tragically lost their lives.
What were the tributes paid to the pilots?
Both pilots received full military honours during their cremation, with tributes from Air Force personnel, government officials, and local community members.
Where did the crash occur?
The Jaguar jet crash took place in the Rajaldesar area of Churu, Rajasthan.
What is being done to investigate the crash?
A Court of Inquiry has been established, and a search operation involving drone surveillance is ongoing to recover the aircraft's black box.
