Indian Pilot Saves Flight From 9/11 Style Disaster, PM Modi Praises Captain Smit Machhar at UPSC Centenary

PM Modi Addresses UPSC Centenary Celebrations in New Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the grand centenary celebrations of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi on Thursday. Marking 100 years of the premier civil services recruitment body, the Prime Minister highlighted the unwavering trust that Indian citizens continue to place in the institution despite changing generations, governments, and technological landscapes over the past century.

During his address, PM Modi emphasized that as India steps into a crucial phase of development over the next 25 years, the role of UPSC and state recruitment bodies in shaping visionary leadership becomes paramount. He urged aspiring civil servants to prioritize public service over mere office holding, keeping the core philosophy of 'Nation First' and 'Citizen First' at the heart of their administrative duties.

How Captain Smit Machhar Averted a Major Aviation Crisis

Highlighting an extraordinary display of courage, Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised Indian pilot Captain Smit Machhar, whose exemplary presence of mind saved a Fly-Dubai flight operating from Dubai to Tel Aviv carrying 174 passengers from a catastrophic disaster.

According to reports, a co-pilot from Oman allegedly attempted to crash the aircraft mid-air. Despite sustaining injuries from a sharp-edged weapon during the scuffle, Captain Smit fought back valiantly and managed to unlock the cockpit door. Passengers and fellow crew members quickly overpowered the attacker, allowing safe landing of the aircraft in Saudi Arabia.

"Yesterday, an incident took place where India's Captain Smit displayed remarkable wits and bravery. The Prime Minister of Israel himself remarked that an Indian had prevented a 9/11-style tragedy. Every Indian is filled with pride by his valor." — Narendra Modi, Prime Minister of India

Adapting Civil Services for the Future

The Prime Minister also touched upon modern technological challenges, noting how artificial intelligence and advanced digital tools are transforming traditional work cultures. He emphasized that future bureaucrats must remain adaptable, compassionate, and deeply connected to grassroots realities as India marches toward becoming a developed nation.