The Indian Air Force (IAF) successfully rescued twelve civilians from floodwaters in Chhattisgarh on September 28, 2026. The operation was initiated after receiving information regarding ten to twelve individuals stranded in fragile kutcha huts located on the northern bank of the Indravati River, near Dongaghat village. A crew from the Central Air Command was promptly dispatched to the area to locate and assist the stranded persons.

Upon arrival, the rescue team conducted a thorough search and identified the civilians gathered precariously on the rooftops of their huts. The roofs, under severe threat from the rising floodwaters, were deemed highly unstable. Realising the urgency of the situation, the IAF crews prepared for a swift rescue operation to ensure the safety of those trapped.

A Garud commando was deployed to lower onto the fragile rooftop, facilitating the extraction of the civilians. Once confirmed safe, the stranded individuals were lifted from the huts and winched into the hovering helicopter. The successful execution of this daring operation ensured the safety of twelve civilians, including both women and children.

Ongoing Military Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026

In addition to the rescue mission, the Indian Air Force is currently engaged in Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026, an extensive multilateral air exercise. This operation commenced its active phase on September 24, 2023, at Air Force Station Jodhpur. The exercise is themed “Power in Partnership” and aims to strengthen cooperation amongst allied air forces.

Scheduled to Continue until October 12, 2026, the exercise involves participation from seven Friendly Foreign Countries (FFCs), including Australia, the United States of America, the United Arab Emirates, France, Germany, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh. The event showcases a variety of aircraft, such as the F-35 Lightning II, Rafale, and F-16, among others, thereby presenting a diverse mix of combat, airlift, and air-to-air refuelling capabilities.

Following the successful inaugural edition in 2024, Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 provides an opportunity for the involved air forces to engage in advanced joint training. The event promotes the exchange of operational expertise and enhances the professional experience of all participants, facilitating a greater level of interoperability among the nations’ air forces.

Collaboration and Observers in the Exercise

The exercise involves not only the direct engagement of the participating air forces but also welcomes several additional Friendly Foreign Countries as observers. This inclusive nature enhances collaboration and allows various nations to witness and learn from the operations undertaken during the exercise.

By operating alongside the IAF, the foreign contingents will use their frontline combat platforms and support elements across a broad spectrum of missions. This collaborative approach is essential for building trust and understanding between different air forces, thereby reinforcing the importance of international partnerships in maintaining aerospace security.

As Exercise Tarang Shakti 2026 unfolds, it highlights the Indian Air Force’s commitment to fostering strong relationships with global partners, all while ensuring the safety and well-being of civilians affected by natural disasters within the region.

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