The recent Air India crash has left the entire nation in deep sorrow. In one of the most tragic incidents in recent times, families have been waiting for days, hoping for answers and the chance to bring their loved ones home. Now, officials have confirmed that DNA matching has been completed for 87 of the victims, and 47 bodies have been handed over to their families. This has brought a small amount of closure, even if it comes with heavy hearts.
The crash took place when the Air India Express flight, operating under the Vande Bharat Mission, met with a terrible accident. The aircraft was carrying Indian nationals returning home from abroad. Many passengers were workers who had spent months or even years away from their families, hoping to return with savings and stories. But their journey ended in a way no one could have imagined.
The task of identifying the victims has not been easy. Due to the nature of the crash, many bodies were severely damaged, making visual identification impossible. In such cases, the government and medical teams rely on DNA testing. This is a scientific method used to confirm identities by comparing samples from the victims to those given by their family members. Though it takes time, it is the most reliable way to make sure each body is returned to the right family.
The process began immediately after the crash, with experts collecting samples from both the remains and from the families. Doctors, forensic experts, and police worked day and night to complete this difficult task. It was not just about science; it was also about emotions. Every body identified means a family gets to perform the last rites, which is deeply important in Indian culture. For many, the inability to say goodbye properly adds to the pain.
Now that 87 DNA matches have been completed, 47 families have taken their loved ones home. The handover process is being done with great care and respect. Families are being supported by local authorities, who are helping with transportation, paperwork, and even emotional support. Volunteers and NGOs have also stepped in to provide help, offering food, water, and comfort to grieving relatives.
For those families who have received the remains, it is a bittersweet moment. On one hand, they finally have clarity. On the other hand, they now have to face the reality of their loss. Funerals are being held across the country, with friends, neighbours, and entire communities coming together to pay their respects. In small villages and big cities alike, people are lighting candles, saying prayers, and sharing stories about those who were lost.
Meanwhile, for the families of the remaining victims, the wait continues. Authorities have promised that every effort is being made to complete the identification process as soon as possible. More DNA results are expected in the coming days, and the remaining bodies will be returned once identities are confirmed. It is a slow and painful journey, but one that must be taken carefully to avoid any mistakes.
The government has also announced compensation for the families of the deceased. In addition to financial support, they are offering counselling and assistance for legal and official procedures. Many families have lost their main earners, and this tragedy has left a long-lasting impact on their lives. Some children are now without parents, and some parents have lost their children forever. The emotional weight of this crash will be felt for years to come.
This accident has also raised serious questions about safety and infrastructure. Experts are now studying the cause of the crash in detail. Early reports suggest poor weather conditions and issues with the runway may have played a role. Aviation authorities have launched an investigation, and safety measures are being reviewed across airports. Many people are asking if more could have been done to prevent this tragedy.
Pilots, crew members, and airport staff are being remembered as heroes. In particular, the actions of the pilots have been praised for trying to reduce the impact and save lives, even in the final moments. Survivors have spoken about the bravery shown during the crash and how some passengers were helped out of the wreckage by others who were injured themselves. These stories remind us of the strength and courage of the human spirit, even in the darkest times.
As the country mourns, memorials and tributes continue. Candlelight vigils, community prayers, and online tributes have become common, not just in India but around the world. Many people who never met the victims are still lighting candles and offering words of comfort to the families. This shared grief has brought people together, showing that even in tragedy, there can be unity and kindness.
The path to healing will take time. For now, the priority remains identifying all the victims and giving their families the chance to say goodbye. With 87 matches confirmed and 47 bodies handed over, progress is being made, even if slowly. Each name identified is a step toward peace for another family.
In the weeks to come, more updates are expected as the remaining DNA matches are completed. Authorities continue to ask for patience and support as they work through the process. For the families, friends, and all those affected, this crash will never be forgotten. It is not just a headline—it is a deeply personal loss for so many.
Let this moment also serve as a reminder of the importance of safety, planning, and compassion in everything we do. Whether it is in aviation, emergency response, or simply how we treat one another, there is always room to improve and to care more deeply. The victims of this crash deserve that much, and more.