CDS General Bipin Rawat: Highlights from his illustrious career

General Bipin Rawat. File Pic

The Indian Air Force, on Wednesday informed that the Chief of Defence Staff, Bipin Laxman Singh Rawat has died aged 63 in a chopper crash in Tamil Nadu's Coonoor.

The crash has claimed 13 lived including General Rawat's wife Dr Madhulika Rawat. 14 passengers including General Rawat, Dr Madhulika Rawat, security personnel, and Defence Assistant were on board the Air Force's Mi-17V5 helicopter which was headed to a Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, where Gen Rawat was scheduled to give a lecture.

General Bipin Rawat. File Pic

The demise of the decorated military leader has sent a wave of grief across the country with politicians and public figures expressing their anguish.

Also Read: 'Bipin Rawat a true patriot; India will not forget his exceptional service'

A look at General Rawat's illustrious career:

• A graduate of the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, Gen Rawat hailed from a family of defence personnel. His father, Laxman Singh Rawat rose from the ranks to become the deputy chief of Army staff.
• Gen Rawat was known for his vast experience and skills in high-altitude warfare.

Indian security personnel stand guard outside Gen Bipin Rawat's residence in New Delhi. Pic/Pallav Paliwal

• He is credited with being instrumental in controlling insurgency in North Eastern states. He was also a part of the plan for the 2016 surgical strike, where Indian army went across LOC to Pakistan-occupied Kashmir to destroy Jaish-e-Mohammed terror camps in Balakot.
• During his long career he served the country through many roles. He commanded a company in Uri in J&K. As a colonel he commanded a battalion along the Line of Actual Control at Kibithu in Arunachal Pradesh.
• A decorated military leader, he was honoured with the Param Vishisht Seva Medal, Uttam Yudh Seva Medal, Ati Vishisht Seva Medal, Vishisht Seva Medal, Yudh Seva Medal, and Sena Medal.