New Delhi,Apr, 21
In a deeply personal tribute, General UpendraDwivedi, the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), paidhomage to Naib Subedar Baldev Singh of 18th Battalion of the Jammuand Kashmir Rifles (18 JAK RIF), who made the supreme sacrifice in the line ofduty while being deployed at the formidable Kumar Post on the SiachenGlacier-the highest battlefield in the world.The wreath-laying ceremony was conducted at Shraddhanjali Sthal, Base Hospital,Delhi Cantt, where the Army Chief laid a wreath on the mortal remains of thevaliant Junior Commissioned Officer. This was not merely a ceremonial gesture,but a heartfelt farewell by a former comrade-in-arms.Naib SubedarBaldev Singh was enrolled into the 18 JAK RIF in 2002 duringOperation Rakshak in the Kashmir Valley. He first came into contact withGeneral Dwivedi in October 2003, when the present Chief of Army Staff tookcommand of the battalion. At the time, Naib SubedarBaldev Singh was serving in Delta Company. Recognising hispotential and spark, the Commanding Officer nominated him for specialist dutiesin the Battalion’s Signal Platoon.The COAS, as then CO 18 JAK RIF, personally mentoredBaldev Singh as an Infantry Signaller. The young soldier accompanied the CO innumerous operations, displaying unwavering professionalism, courage, anddedication. Over the time, Baldev Singh rose through the ranks and was promotedto Naib Subedar about a year ago. The bond between the two soldiers, built onmutual respect and shared hardships, grew into a familial relationship, makingthe loss all the more profound and personal.Naib Subedar Baldev Singh tragically lost his life on April 20 whileserving with the Signal Platoon at Kumar Post in the treacherous terrain of theNorthern Glacier, Siachen.The Indian Army stands in steadfast solidaritywith the bereaved family during this hour of grief and salutes the indomitablespirit and devotion to duty of Naib Subedar Baldev Singh. His legacy of sacrifice and service willcontinue to inspire generations of soldiers, an official release read.
