Sri Vijaya Puram | February 25, 2026
SAW ABRAHAM
Three Forest DRMs and one IRBn personnel are being widely hailed as heroes after emerging as the first responders in the helicopter ditching incident near Mayabunder on February 24, helping ensure the safe rescue of all seven persons on board.
A Pawan Hans Dauphin N3 helicopter (VT-PHY) ditched into the sea approximately 300 metres short of the Mayabunder helipad at around 9:30 am in North and Middle Andaman district, with seven persons on board, including two pilots and an infant.
According to accounts shared by a passenger, including details reported earlier by Nicobar Times, the pilots played a crucial role in assisting passengers immediately after the ditching. However, the first external help came from an engine-powered dinghy that happened to be passing nearby.
The dinghy, usually used by fishermen, was carrying three Daily Rated Mazdoors (DRMs) of the Forest Department and one personnel from the India Reserve Battalion (IRBn) of the Andaman and Nicobar Police. They were on their way to Interview Island when they reportedly witnessed the helicopter going down.
The four first responders — Saw Thomas, Saw Manashe and Saw Sakari (Forest DRMs), along with Karthick (IRBn) — quickly navigated towards the site and provided immediate assistance to those on board. Their swift action and presence of mind in a high-pressure situation played a critical role in ensuring that all passengers were brought to safety.
While helping others in distress may appear instinctive, responding effectively during an aviation emergency in waters requires courage, composure and decisive action. The timely intervention by the four personnel significantly strengthened the rescue effort during the crucial initial moments after the ditching.
Their bravery has drawn widespread appreciation on social media, with many users calling for formal recognition. Several voices have demanded that the quartet be awarded the Lt. Governor’s Commendation Card and be considered for appropriate bravery awards for their actions.
Observers have noted that recognising such acts of courage not only honours the individuals involved but also encourages a culture of readiness and compassion in times of crisis.
Thanks to the coordinated efforts of the pilots and the first responders, all five passengers on board — including the infant — survived the incident.
