Explanation:

Cheetah” and “Chetak’ are the names of helicopters. The reason UPSC asked this was because it was in news. During the last three years (2012-13, 2013-14  &  2014-15), 06 accidents have taken place involving Cheetah and Chetak helicopters of Armed Forces in which 09 defence personnel have died. Wives of Army Officers have represented to the Government for replacement of Cheetah and Chetak helicopters to avoid casualties.

Phasing out of aircraft including helicopters and their replacement depends upon the national security / strategic objectives and operational requirements of the defence forces and is reviewed by the Government from time to time.  This is a continuous process.

The two main reasons for the frequent crashes are attributed to “human errors” and “technical defects”. In other words, “inadequate” training of pilots, ageing machines and shoddy maintenance practices all combine to constitute a deadly mix for the armed forces.