Gonda, Oct. 3 -- Union Minister of State for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh on Saturday praised Flydubai pilot Captain Smit Machchhar for his extraordinary bravery during a mid-air crisis, saying his courageous actions helped save the lives of over 170 passengers and crew and brought immense honour to India on the global stage.

Extolling the captain's presence of mind and fortitude, MoS MEA Kirti Vardhan Singh commended Machchhar's devotion and response during the life-threatening ordeal, highlighting that the global recognition he has received transcends any formal commendation.

"I must say that Captain Machchhar performed a truly courageous act, and if he drew inspiration from the Hanuman Chalisa, that is excellent. He saved the...