Captain Anshuman Singh of the Indian Army Medical Corps was awarded the Kirti Chakra posthumously, India’s second-highest peace-time gallantry award, for his exceptional act of bravery and self-sacrifice in a tragic incident that occurred at the Siachen Glacier. This brave act showcases just how brave and committed military personnel are when they are faced with the most difficult situations.

Early Life and Career:

Captain Anshuman Singh became a member of the Army Medical Corps on 19th March 2020. An alumnus of the Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), He was recognized for his high level of dedication and loyalty to the service. He was posted as doctor in 26th Battalion (Punjab Regiment), situated at Chandan Complex, Siachen Glacier which is the world’s highest war zone.

The Fateful Night:

At Chandan Dropping Zone that night, precisely on July 19, 2023, there was a fire outbreak forcing Captain Singh who was on duty to first run out of his fiberglass hut without considering taking any protective measures to rescue his comrades from an adjacent hut. The hut was rapidly filling with smoke and on the verge of catching fire. He managed to save some because he started by saving one man then subsequently directed some others before realizing that a room for medical examination had been taken up by fire.

The sudden fire spread quickly because of high velocity winds, forcing Captain Singh to retreat into his hut and retrieve a medical-aid box and unfortunately, he could not escape from there. Despite everything that was done to save him, he perished in flames. His martyrdom was a noble act that symbolized the true spirit of the Indian Army.

Recognition and Legacy:

Captain Anshuman Singh was posthumously awarded the Kirti Chakra for his gallantry and devotion to duty. This prize citation was all about his extraordinary precedence as indicated by the words “Exceptional bravery and determination at the greatest level without considering his personal security,” which is in line with the best customs within the Indian military forces.

In the eve of India’s 75th Republic day, the award was announced among 80 gallantry awards for armed forces personnel. Among the awardees were six Kirti Chakras, three received posthumously, including that of Captain Singh. This bestows upon him an honor that includes being counted in the category distinguished for showing exceptional bravery in situations where their lives are in danger.

President Droupadi Murmu conferred Kirti Chakra upon Captain Anshuman Singh, The Army Medical Corps, 26th Battalion The Punjab Regiment, posthumously. Disregarding his own safety, he exhibited exceptional bravery and resolve to rescue many people in a major fire incident. pic.twitter.com/o8bVuM3ZOo
— President of India (@rashtrapatibhvn) July 5, 2024

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Life in Siachen:

Due to its extreme weather conditions, serving at Siachen is a very tough task. With temperatures reaching as low as -40°C to -50°C, very harsh/threatening (choose one) conditions make the life of soldiers in jeopardy. Captain Singh provides medical support which includes among others frostbite and high-altitude pulmonary edema combating as well as taking care of the personnel’s deep vein thrombosis to ensure that they remain healthy thus perform their duties properly.

The medical facilities in Siachen, although improved from the past remain peculiarly challenging. Emergency evacuations depend heavily on weather conditions, and medical treatments often require innovative solutions to adapt to the extreme environment. His position as Captain in charge of health matters became so crucial and his loss was deeply felt by his unit and the military community.

Personal Life:

Captain Singh has family member such as father, Subedar Ravi Pratap Singh (Retd), his mother, and his wife, Mrs. Shristi Singh. The fallen soldier’s relatives, pals, as well as working buddies regard him as a valiant and loyal military man who valued service more than anything else.

Conclusion:

Captain Anshuman Singh’s story is a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by the members of the armed forces. His bravery, selflessness, and unwavering commitment to his duty have left an indelible mark on the nation’s history. This award is in remembrance of the valiant deeds which he did, leading to it being a source of motivation even in generations to come.

President Droupadi Murmu presents the Kirti Chakra (Posthumous) to Captain Anshuman Singh. #DefenceInvestitureCeremony @rashtrapatibhvn pic.twitter.com/CpWRHRjJbs
— Doordarshan National दूरदर्शन नेशनल (@DDNational) July 5, 2024