New Delhi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep condolences on the tragic demise of Gen Bipin Rawat, his wife and other personnel of the Armed Forces in a chopper crash near Tamil Nadu's Coonoor on Wednesday.

PM Modi said in a tweet, "I am deeply anguished by the helicopter crash in Tamil Nadu in which we have lost Gen Bipin Rawat, his wife and other personnel of the Armed Forces. They served India with utmost diligence. My thoughts are with the bereaved families". 

"Gen Bipin Rawat was an outstanding soldier. A true patriot, he greatly contributed to modernising our armed forces and security apparatus. His insights and perspectives on strategic matters were exceptional. His passing away has saddened me deeply. Om Shanti," tweeted PM Modi.

"As India’s first CDS, Gen Rawat worked on diverse aspects relating to our armed forces including defence reforms. He brought with him a rich experience of serving in the Army. India will never forget his exceptional service."

I am deeply anguished by the helicopter crash in Tamil Nadu in which we have lost Gen Bipin Rawat, his wife and other personnel of the Armed Forces. They served India with utmost diligence. My thoughts are with the bereaved families.

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) December 8, 2021

In a tragic incident, the highest defence officer of India, Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Laxman Singh Rawat, his wife Madhulika Rawat and 11 others died in a chopper crash near Tamil Nadu's Coonoor in the Nilgiris on Wednesday. 

Group Capt Varun Singh SC, Directing Staff at DSSC with injuries is currently under treatment at Military Hospital, Wellington.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is likely to issue a statement in Parliament on the crash of the military chopper with the Chief of Defence Staff on board.