Thursday, November 15, 2012

Former defence minister KC Pant passes away

India’s former defence minister and deputy chairman of Planning Commission Krishna Chandra Pant passed away Delhi on Thursday morning at the age of 81.

Indian Defence Minister AK Antony expressed his “profound grief” at the demise of the ex-minister who held the command of the ministry during critical times like the deployment of the Indian troops in Sri Lanka and to preempt a coup attempt in Maldives. 

“Pant steered the Ministry at one of the most critical junctures of history as the Indian Peace Keeping Forces were deployed in Sri Lanka as a stepping stone to the tortuous journey for peace in the island nation.  The Indian troops were also deployed at short notice in Maldives to abort a coup attempt, in a clear manifestation of our commitment to the promotion of peace and stability in South Asian Region,” Antony said in his condolence message.

In his political career Pant was in 12 ministries and he was country’s defence minister form 1987-89, in the Rajiv Gandhi government.

Pant has been instrumental in key acquisitions for the armed forces as the British-built aircraft carrier HMS Hermes – rechristened as INS Viraat for the Indian Navy and MiG-29 fighter jets for the Indian Air Force.   

“Pant bolstered the Indian Armed Forces in a big way with the acquisition of the country’s flagship aircraft carrier INS Viraat and Mig-29 aircraft among many other acquisitions during his tenure as the Defence Minister.

“He was also instrumental in the setting up of the first Coast Guard Air Station at Daman. May his soul rest in peace,” Antony added.

No comments:

Post a Comment