MUMBAI: Maharashtra chief minister Devendra Fadnavis hailed Indian Captain Smit Machchhar as a “true HERO”, saying he was proud of the Mumbai resident for saving hundreds of lives during the flight incident.“Super proud of our Mumbai’s son Captain Smit Machchhar, a true HERO — who saved hundreds of lives, in such an exceptional and extraordinary manner!” Fadnavis said in a post on X.Fadnavis said Machchhar displayed “presence of mind and courage” despite being “ghastly injured” during the flight from Dubai to Tel Aviv. He also praised the passengers who worked together to handle the difficult situation and reach safety.“Wishing Smit a very speedy recovery and good health! You are an inspiration. Maharashtra & India is proud of you!” he said.Meanwhile, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Thursday lauded Machchhar for his “extraordinary courage” and “remarkable presence of mind”, saying his actions saved hundreds of lives and averted a major tragedy.In a post on X, Jaishankar prayed for the captain’s speedy recovery.In a post on X, Jaishkar prayed for the captain’s speedy recovery, stating, “Captain Smit Machchhar’s extraordinary courage and remarkable presence of mind, even in the face of grave danger, saved hundreds of lives yesterday and averted a major tragedy. Join the countless voices from across the world in saluting his valour and praying for his speedy recovery.”Prime Minister Narendra Modi also hailed Machchhar as a “HERO”, saying the Indian pilot showed immense courage and remained determined to protect passengers despite being seriously injured.“Captain Smit Machchhar is a HERO. In the face of the gravest danger and despite being seriously injured, he showed immense courage and an unwavering resolve to protect the lives of others. His valour helped save hundreds of lives and avert a great tragedy,” Modi said in a post on X.
