Amaravati: A soldier from Andhra Pradesh was killed in the helicopter crash in Coonoor, Tamil Nadu, on Wednesday, along with Chief of Defence Staff Gen Bipin Rawat. Lance Naik B. Sai Teja, acting as Personal Security Officer to the Central Defence force, was among 11 who died along with Gen Rawat and his wife Madhulika Rawat.

Sai Teja (27) is survived by his wife Shyamala, son Mokshagana, 4, and daughter Darshini, 2. He was born in the Andhra Pradesh district of Chittoor. He hailed from Eguva Regada village in Kurabala Kota mandal, the son of a farmer.

Sai Teja, who belonged to the Kuruba community, joined the Indian Army as a sepoy in 2012 and was later selected for para commando training. He was designated PSO to the CDS last year. Sai Teja's family in Madanapalle town was shocked to learn of his death in the crash only a few hours after he chatted with them on the phone. At 8.45 a.m., the soldier made a video call to his wife and children.

The death of the young soldier has been grieved by political leaders from all parties, prominent police officials, and people from all walks of life.

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