New Delhi, Oct. 18 -- An Indian Air Force (IAF) C-130J aircraft undertook a short-notice casualty evacuation late at night, airlifting a critically ill 30-year-old civilian patient from Leh to Palam for further medical care, the Defence Ministry said on Sunday.

As per the ministry, the mission was carried out in darkness and challenging weather conditions, requiring a high degree of operational preparedness, professional coordination and timely execution. The patient was subsequently transferred to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) for further treatment.

The mission reflects the IAF's operational readiness and its ability to respond promptly to critical humanitarian requirements, including medical evacuation under chal...