Question : DISAPPEARANCE OF ARMY HELICOPTER

(a) whether an M.1-8 helicopter of the Indian Army had disappeared mysteriously on February 26, 2001;

(b) if so, whether the Government have received any information about the above helicopter and its six members crew on board;

(c) if so, the details thereof;

(d) if not, whether the Government are making any efforts to trace out the missing helicopter; and

(e) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI JASWANT SINGH)

(a) Yes, Sir.

(b) & (c): The debris of the helicopter were finally located on 6th March, 2001. All the six crew members were found dead. A Court of Inquiry has been ordered to investigate the cause of the accident.

(d) & (e): Do not arise in view of (b)&(c), above.