Rajesh Pilot: From Fighter Pilot to People’s Politician of India

Rajesh Pilot: The Squadron Leader Who Soared in Indian Politics

Rajesh Pilot, born Rajeshwar Prasad Singh Bidhuri on February 10, 1945, in Baidpura, Ghaziabad, was a man of many missions. From serving as a decorated officer in the Indian Air Force to becoming a respected politician in the Indian National Congress, his life was a testament to dedication, courage, and public service.

Pilot began his career in the Indian Air Force in 1966, rising to the rank of Squadron Leader. He fought in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971 as a bomber pilot, flying the modified DHC-4 Caribou aircraft. His military service earned him several medals, including the Sangram Medal, Poorvi Star, and Sainya Seva Medal.

In 1979, influenced by his friend Rajiv Gandhi, Pilot resigned from the Air Force and entered politics. He contested the 1980 Lok Sabha elections from Bharatpur, adopting the surname “Pilot” to honor his Air Force legacy. He won against the former queen of Bharatpur and quickly rose through the ranks of the Congress party.

Throughout his political career, Rajesh Pilot held several key portfolios:

• Minister of Surface Transport (1985–1989)
• Minister of Telecommunications (1991–1993)
• Minister of Internal Security (1993–1995)
• Minister of Environment (1995–1996)

He was known for his grassroots connection, especially among the Gurjar community, and for advocating rural development and transparency in governance. He founded the Jai Jawan Jai Kisan Trust in 1987 to support farmers and soldiers.

Pilot was also a member of the Congress Working Committee and contested for the party presidency in 1997, challenging Sitaram Kesri in a bold move to reform the party.

Tragically, Rajesh Pilot died in a car accident on June 11, 2000, near Jaipur. His legacy lives on through his son Sachin Pilot, a prominent leader in Rajasthan politics. 

 

Trivia Points About Rajesh Pilot :

• Real name: Rajeshwar Prasad Singh Bidhuri.
• Born in Baidpura, Ghaziabad, in 1945.
• Served in the Indian Air Force from 1966 to 1979.
• Fought in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.
• Adopted the surname “Pilot” after joining politics.
• Won his first election against the queen of Bharatpur.
• Held four Union Minister positions.
• Founded Jai Jawan Jai Kisan Trust in 1987.
• Flew an F-16 in the Netherlands in 1988.
• Tested the MiG-29 for the Indian Air Force.
• Contested Congress presidency in 1997.
• Died in a car crash on June 11, 2000.
• India Post issued a commemorative stamp in 2008.
• Roads in Delhi and Gurugram are named after him.
• His son Sachin Pilot is a senior Congress leader.