Sergeant Mustafa Ali SC

Sergeant Mustafa Ali was a native of Dundwa Buzurg village in Chhibramau tehsil of Kannauj district, Uttar Pradesh. He received his early education at the primary school in his village and later completed his high school and intermediate education at Rishi Bhumi Inter College in Saurikh. His family included his parents, an elder brother, and an elder sister. From an early age, Sgt Mustafa Ali exhibited a deep interest in technology and aviation, which ultimately led him to pursue a career in the Indian Air Force. Determined to serve the nation, he joined the Air Force after completing his schooling. Upon recruitment, he was enrolled in one of the technical trades of the Air Force, where he underwent extensive training in aircraft systems maintenance. His training covered various aspects of aeronautical engineering, including aircraft engines, avionics, electrical systems, and mechanical components. Through dedication and perseverance, he quickly gained expertise in maintaining and troubleshooting complex aircraft, playing a crucial role in ensuring their operational readiness.

During his initial years of service, Sergeant Mustafa Ali was posted at several front line Air Force bases, where he worked on different types of aircraft. His technical acumen and commitment to excellence soon set him apart, paving the way for his selection as a flight engineer. This role required specialized training, as it involved in-depth knowledge of aircraft operations, in-flight systems management, and emergency protocols. Transitioning from ground-based maintenance duties to an operational role in the skies marked a significant milestone in his career. As a flight engineer, he became an integral part of the aircrew, ensuring the aircraft's performance and safety during missions. His expertise and dedication made him a valuable asset to the Indian Air Force, contributing to critical operations and safeguarding both personnel and equipment in challenging conditions.

After successfully completing his training, he was assigned to a helicopter unit as an aircrew member. In this capacity, he played a critical role in monitoring and managing aircraft systems during flight operations, assisting pilots in ensuring safe and efficient missions. His duties as a flight engineer extended beyond routine operations, encompassing search and rescue missions, troop transport, and logistical support in challenging terrains and adverse conditions. 

Air Support Operation : 14 Nov 2008

During November 2008, Sergeant Mustafa Ali was serving with 119 Helicopter Unit (HU) of the Indian Air Force, operating Mi-8 helicopters based at Air Force Station Jamnagar, Gujarat. The unit, known for its rich operational history, was originally raised on 3rd March 1972 as the ‘Angels of Mercy’ at Air Force Station Guwahati under the command of Wing Commander Bobby Johnson. Over the years, 119 HU played a pivotal role in various military operations, including counter-insurgency operations in Nagaland (1985-1988) and Operation Falcon in Arunachal Pradesh. In 1988, the unit was deployed to Air Force Station Sulur for Operation Pawan in Sri Lanka, where it was rechristened as ‘The Stallions’. On 20th May 1990, 119 HU was relocated to Air Force Station Jamnagar, where it quickly gained distinction as the ‘Best Helicopter Unit’ in SWAC (South Western Air Command) for 1990-91 and 1993-94. The unit also achieved several operational milestones, including the first-ever night bombing by Mi-8 helicopters in 1991 and the first night-time air maintenance operation in 1998.

On 8th November 2008, under the command of Wing Commander Sunil Kumar Singh, 119 HU was tasked with election duties in Chhattisgarh, a region heavily affected by insurgency. Over the course of the operation, the unit flew 58 sorties, transporting 215 passengers and 2,905 kg of load to ensure the smooth conduct of elections. On 14th November 2008, the unit was assigned another crucial mission in Bastar, an insurgency-hit district of Chhattisgarh. The objective was to airlift three injured Border Security Force (BSF) personnel, Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs), and election commission officials. Despite intelligence reports warning of anti-national elements in the area, the aircrew meticulously planned and successfully executed their landing at the designated helipad. Sergeant Mustafa Ali was part of the aircrew for this high-risk mission, alongside Squadron Leader Tarun Kumar Chaudhri (Captain) and Flight Lieutenant Yogindra Singh Tomar (Co-Pilot).

After successfully picking up the injured personnel and election materials, the Mi-8 helicopter prepared for take-off. However, as it lifted off, it came under heavy enemy fire from AK-47 rifles and light machine guns. Rebel forces, concealed in a nearby hilly area in Pidia (Bijapur district, approximately 500 km from Raipur), launched a sudden and intense attack. Amidst the chaos, Sergeant Mustafa Ali, who was engaged in his duties as the flight engineer, was struck by multiple gunshots. Despite being gravely wounded, he remained at his station, ensuring the aircraft’s safety. Tragically, he succumbed to his injuries, making the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Despite the loss of a crew member and significant damage to the helicopter, Sqn Ldr Tarun Kumar Chaudhri displayed exceptional courage and presence of mind. With remarkable skill, he took evasive maneuvers, stabilized the damaged aircraft, and safely flew back to base—saving the lives of the remaining passengers and preserving critical government property.

For their extraordinary bravery and composure under fire, the crew members were recognized with prestigious gallantry awards: Squadron Leader Tarun Kumar Chaudhri was awarded the "Shaurya Chakra" for safely bringing the helicopter back under extreme duress. Flight Lieutenant Yogindra Singh Tomar was honored with the Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry) for his courage and valour. Sergeant Mustafa Ali was posthumously awarded the "Shaurya Chakra" on 15th August 2009 for his unwavering devotion to duty, courage, and supreme sacrifice. His wife Smt Rihana Khan, received the award from the President of India. 

Sergeant Mustafa Ali is survived by his mother Smt Quraisha Begum and wife Smt Rihana Khan.