In a heartfelt gesture of solidarity, UAE-based Indian-origin entrepreneur Dr. Shamsheer Vayalil has pledged ₹6 crore to support the families of four medical students who tragically lost their lives in the recent Air India Flight AI171 crash in Ahmedabad.
A Tribute to Future Frontline Heroes
The ill-fated flight, which crashed into a medical college hostel mess shortly after takeoff, claimed over 270 lives. Among the deceased were Manav, Aaryan, Rakesh, and Jaiprakash—MBBS students who were preparing to serve as future doctors.
“They were future frontline heroes… preparing to save lives, not lose their own,” Dr. Vayalil wrote on X, announcing his donation.
As the founder and chairman of Burjeel Holdings, Dr. Vayalil said the tragedy struck a personal chord, having once lived in medical hostels himself. His contribution aims to provide financial relief and honor the memory of the young medics who never got the chance to serve.
Wider Support for Crash Victims
The Tata Group, which owns Air India, has also announced ₹1 crore compensation for each victim’s family, along with full medical support for the injured and assistance in rebuilding the BJ Medical College hostel.
This collective outpouring of support underscores the nation’s grief and commitment to standing by the families affected by one of India’s deadliest aviation disasters in recent history.
