In a statement issued by the PMO, the Prime Minister expressed his deep condolences at the grievous loss of life resulting from the Air India crash that took place in Mangalore early this morning. The Prime Minister spoke both to the Home Minister and to the Minister of Civil Aviation who briefed him on the ongoing rescue operations being conducted at the site of the crash.
 
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh announced a financial assistance of Rs 2 lakh each for the families of those killed.

As a mark of respect to those who perished in the tragedy, the function at the Prime Minister's residence this evening to mark the completion of the first year of UPA II Government has been postponed, a statement from the PMO said.

The Prime Minister has also announced a compensation of Rs 50,000 each to those injured in the crash from the Prime Minister's National Relief Fund.

Singh spoke to Home Minister P Chidambaram and Civil Aviation Minister Praful Patel, who briefed him on the ongoing rescue operations being carried out at the Mangalore airport.

Ministers Praful Patel and Law Minister Veerappa Moily are on their way to Mangalore.

Congress president Sonia Gandhi also expressed grief and sorrow over the tragic air accident in Mangalore that took place around 6.30 am today.

In a message, she wished speedy recovery to those injured.