The Indian Air Force has transferred Wing Commander Abhinandan Varthaman out of the Srinagar airbase following security concerns for him in Kashmir Valley, and has been shifted to an airbase in the Western sector along Pakistan border. After some tests it will be decided if Abhinandan can fly fighter jet again. 

The new base where Abhinandan has been transferred to has been kept secret for security reasons. It has been revealed that IAF has  recommended Abhinandan Varthaman for the Vir Chakra, a wartime gallantry medal, for his brave act of shooting down a Pakistan airforce F-16 fighter jet.

The fighter pilot was arrested by that Pakistani Army on February 27 after he shot down a Pakistani jets and his MiG-21 was shot by Pakistanis in an aerial combat. Abhinandan was in Pakistan custody for two days and was released on March 1 as a goodwill gesture, and then he returned to his squadron in Srinagar despite being on a four-week sick leave.