(a) whether the two pilots were killed in a helicopter crash in Siachin recently;
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the reasons behind the helicopter crash; and
(d) the steps taken by the Government to prevent such incidents in future and providing compensation to the victim families?
MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI A.K. ANTONY)
(a) & (b): One Cheetah helicopter crashed on 11.4.2007 near Amar Helipad (Siachen) in which both the pilots were killed.
(c) The helicopter crashed due to engine failure.
(d) A continuous and multi-faceted effort is always underway in the Defence Forces to enhance and upgrade flight safety. Measures to enhance the quality of training to improve the skill levels, ability to exercise sound judgment and situational awareness of pilots are being pursued. Constant interaction with Original Equipment Manufactures (OEMs), both indigenous and foreign, is also maintained to overcome the technical defects of aircraft. Besides, anti-bird measures are also undertaken.
Compensation to the next of kin of the deceased is given as per extant Government policy.