IAF legend Group Captain DK Parulkar, who escaped Pakistani captors in 1971, dies

NEW DELHI: Group Captain Dilip Kamalkar Parulkar (Retd), a decorated 1971 war hero remembered for his daring escape from captivity in Pakistan and his unwavering service to the nation, died on Sunday.

The Indian Air Force shared the news on X saying: "Gp Capt DK Parulkar (Retd) VM, VSM - 1971 War hero, who led a daring escape from captivity in Pakistan, embodying unmatched courage, ingenuity & pride in the IAF - has left for his heavenly abode."


Commissioned in March 1963, Parulkar served in multiple key roles, including as a flying instructor at the Air Force Academy, a deputation to Singapore, and later as Battalion Commander at the National Defence Academy.


His gallantry was recognised during the 1965 Indo-Pak war when, despite being injured in the shoulder after his aircraft was hit by enemy fire, he flew the damaged plane back to base. For this act of exceptional courage, he was awarded the Vayu Sena Medal.

His most celebrated act came during the 1971 Indo-Pak war. Captured as a Prisoner of War (PoW) in Pakistan, then Wing Commander Parulkar displayed extraordinary initiative and pride in the Indian Air Force. He masterminded and led an audacious escape attempt from a PoW camp, alongside two fellow officers, braving a hostile and unpredictable enemy. The mission demanded relentless determination and valour, ultimately compelling even the adversary to respect the calibre of the IAF.

For his distinguished service, Parulkar was honoured with the Vishisht Sena Medal.

The IAF, in an official tribute, said: "All Air Warriors of the IAF express their heartfelt condolences."

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